Mark and the Good Samaritans at the Downtown Diner
Earlier this month we reported on how an opportunist thief had conned his way into the home of an elderly man in Blackman Avenue and made off with cash and bank cards
When Mark Straughan from the Downtown Diner in Robertson Street heard about Albert’s plight he decided to do something and set about raising cash to replace some of the money that had been stolen.
This week Mark handed Albert (see picture at the top of the page) a cheque for £545.79, the cash coming from the 1950s style Juke Boxes in the diner and from donations from Downtown Diner’s customers.
“We’re delighted to have been able to do something to support this vulnerable gentleman who was a victim of such a horrible crime and had all his money taken off of him and his bank account cleaned out,” Mark told Hastings In Focus.
Police are still hoping witnesses can come forward with information that could help them catch the thief.
The incident took place about 10am on Tuesday May 5th when the stranger conned his way in to Albert’s home claiming to be from a housing association and offered to help him by getting some food shopping.
After being allowed in to the house, the suspect demanded cash and bank cards.
He is described as a white man who appeared to be in his early 30s, about 5’9’’ with short black slicked black hair wearing a blue polo shirt and black shoes.
Investigator Caroline Bendell said: “This incident has caused distress to the victim.
“This appears to be an isolated incident but we’re asking people to be vigilant in your local area and look out for elderly neighbours to make sure they’re okay.
“If you know anything about this distraction burglary or have seen anything suspicious please report it to police.”
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to report online or call 101, quoting serial 621 of 05/05 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
