Hastings Burglary Investigation After Suspect Impersonates Police Officer

Tuesday, 8 September 2020 11:19

By Iona Stewart-Richardson @IslandIona

Police are investigating a burglary in Hastings where the suspect claimed to be a police officer.

Officers received a report of a burglary in High Rocks, Hastings around 4.30am on 26 August.

A man claiming to be a police officer knocked at the door saying he was investigating fake money and had a search warrant, according to police.

The suspect knew the victim's name and identified himself as a "CID Sergeant".

He instructed the victim to take the cash out of his wallet so he could check the serial number.

The victim - a 64-year-old man - had £165 stolen.

The suspect is described as a white man of a heavy build, aged in his 40s or 50s and was carrying a briefcase.

DC Andrew Smithson said:

If you were in the area around the time of the offence or have seen anything suspicious then we would like to hear from you.

"We are also appealing for any further victims of this sort of crime to come forwards.

"Fraudsters who exploit people's trust in organisations such as the police for their own gains will not be tolerated and we are determined to find the person responsible."

Anyone with information can report online or call 101, quoting 194 of 26/08.

For advice about fraud please see the website here.

More from Sussex News

‘A Kick In The Teeth For Lewes’: Lib Dem MP Expresses Disappointment Over Bus Station Loss

Lewes Lib Dems, including MP James MacCleary, have reacted after efforts to persuade Secretary of State Angela Rayner to overturn the South Downs National Park Authority’s (SDNPA) decision to allow the demolition of Lewes bus station were unsuccessful.
Results For Worthing’s Bathing Water Sites Revealed

Teams from Worthing Borough Council are working with the Environment Agency and Southern Water to identify sources of pollution impacting the town’s seawater.
£100,000 Robbery Of Bexhill Mobile Phone Store

An estimated £100,000 worth of electronic equipment was stolen from a shop in Bexhill on Monday evening (November 25).
Organisations In Wealden Receive Funding To Help Tackle Inequalities In Physical Activity

Six organisations have received grant awards to support physical activity projects within Wealden and improve health and wellbeing outcomes.
Festive Children’s Stories Brought To Life With Interactive Story Session

A selection of festive stories for young children will be brought to life in Chichester’s historic Guildhall in Priory Park thanks to an interactive Christmas story session.
Jail Time For Shop Owner Who Sold Illegal Tobacco

A shop owner who failed to appear in court after the discovery of £6,000 worth of illegal tobacco and cigarettes has been jailed.
Funding Boost For Community-Led Waste Prevention Projects In West Sussex

West Sussex County Council has partnered with its recycling and waste contractor Biffa, to launch a new Waste Prevention Community Grant Fund for community-based household waste prevention projects in West Sussex.
Newhaven RNLI Welcomes Quartet Of Mayors To Share Gratitude

Mayors of Peacehaven (Debbie Donovan), Seaford (Sally Markwell), Lewes (Imogen Makepeace) and deputy Mayor of Newhaven (Kim Bishop) were welcomed today by Susan Carroll, Newhaven RNLI’s LMG Chair to visit the lifeboat station. Roger Cohen MBE, (LOM) showed them around.
University Of Brighton Launches Health Innovation Hub To Tackle Health Challenges

The University of Brighton today unveiled its groundbreaking new Health Innovation Hub designed to reshape health research, education, and practice by addressing critical health challenges through collaboration, innovation, and education.
New Residential Care Home For Disabled Children In Brighton

Brighton & Hove City Council are developing a new residential home for disabled children and young people in the city.