Dilemma 2

[beckersjay]

Put this under crosswords by mistake so reposting...An elderly neighbour, who lives alone, told us today about a man who called at her house this week in search of antiques, jewellery etc. Unwisely, she let him in the house. He left with some old jewellery she had packed up ready to go to charity, paying her a sum of money - i have no idea how closely this represented the value of the goods. He left her with a 'business' card (though he had asked for this to be returned, which seemed rather fishy). She was worried, so I checked on the internet and found that he is a known 'bent' dealer, who was sentenced to a jail term last year for theft of jewellery in similar circumstances - I should stress that my neighbour is not at the moment aware of anything missing from her house.
I really don't want to panic her as she is in her 80's and lives alone. She has promised never to let anyone in the house again in similar circumstances. What would you do.....?

[Sparkles62]

Do you have a community police officer that you could chat to, even if it was just to alert them to the fact that this man is " working " in the area so they can keep an eye on him.

[beckersjay]

That sounds like a good idea - might just try and folow it up next week

[Eve]

I was going to say similar, speak to the local community officers, they can hopefully keep an eye on him and maybe get some kind of warning out locally to people, especially vulnerable people, to help them not to be taken in and remind people generally about the dangers of these kind of people.

They could also advise on better safety precautions like chains on doors, signs saying people don't accept cold callers etc...

[boxtops]

Yes, tell the police. They need to know if this person is operating in their area.

At least she got some money from the jewellery (and was planning to give it away anyway) - he could have taken it away for "valuation" and she never saw it again.

[giveup]

Just call the police.

[Dee Sa]

pls make the police aware, then may be they could go round with you there too to check that the house is secure. Sounds like he is up tp hs old tricks again, leopards never change their spots comes to mind.

[ummmm]

Call the police. It's a no brainer!