CCTV image released after dozens of frauds at DIY stores
Published 21 Feb 2012 16:00
POLICE have released CCTV footage of a man they believe is connected to dozens of frauds at DIY stores.
Detectives believe 37 frauds worth a total of £9,000 have taken places at Wickes stores across the South East - including in Reading - after a man has gone in asking for refunds for items he has not bought.
PC Richard Valder-Davis, of Sussex Police, said: "This man appears to be travelling across the South East and further to carry out these frauds at Wickes stores.
"He enters the shops and takes an item from the shelves, generally kitchen items, then takes them to the till and claims to have previously bought the product but no longer has the receipt. He is then given a refund or credit note.
"We are keen to identify him or anyone who may have information about who is carrying out these frauds."
Police say the incidents happened between August and last month and the Reading Wickes branch in Weldale Street was targeted on December 7.
The man police would like to speak to is white, 5ft8ins-5ft10ins tall, in his late 40s and described as looking "unclean", with some teeth missing and others black. He has worn a green farmer's-style cap with grey hair showing at the side with black or grey facial stubble. He has also worn a grey scarf, green duffle-style coat and blue jeans.
Contact Sussex Police on 101 quoting serial 713 of 13/1 or call charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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