ELDERLY residents in the Crook area are being warned to be on their guard following a spate of distraction burglaries.
Police are searching for a teenage boy and are appealing for witnesses.
The most recent incident took place on Tuesday morning in Waterloo Close, Crook, when the youth claimed to be carrying out a survey.
A similar incident took place last Thursday in Rumby Hill and on September 8, in Helmington Row.
The suspect is described as about 15 to 16-years-old, 5ft 8ins tall, of slim build, with short ginger hair. He spoke with a local accent.
Detective Constable Joanne Wright said: "We believe the same individual is responsible for these burglaries.
"In each case he used a different excuse to trick his way into the homes of the elderly."
Anyone who can help is asked to call DC Wright or Detective Sergeant Dunny McCubbin on 0845 60 60 365, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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