Ex Offender Seller

I have just received an email from a fellow Home Watch Coordinator who resides in St Mary's ward on the border or Crewe / Nantwich towns. He has made me aware that someone claiming to be an ex-offender called as his door yesterday and tried to sell him items. The person appears to have had some sort of ID to try and support his claim. When the individual was politely refused he left the property giving the homeowner abuse as he left.

You will be aware that the story of being an ex-offender trying to make good is not a new one in terms of trying to sell items at the door. Some may state they are linked to probation to further validate the story. I can confirm that the local probation service never enlist individuals to go door to door selling items. Over the years some people engaging in this type of doorstep sales have used this as a distraction burglary technique, whereas others may be trying to sell items at an over inflated price to make money for themselves by gaining the sympathy of the homeowner. Unfortunately, it is difficult to ascertain where on this scale someone at your door falls from the brief exchange you may have at your front door. As such the best advice in terms of all doorstep callers is:

1.) If someone knocks at your door and you are not expecting anyone have a look who it is via a spy hole / window.
2.) If you don't recognise the person it is your choice as to whether you even open the door to them. If you do not know them and don't feel comfortable opening the door do not feel obligated to do so even if they have seen that someone is in. If you do intend to open the door, please ensure you lock your rear door before doing so.
3.) If you have a door chain make sure you use it when opening the door - it provides an extra layer of security for you.
4.) If someone is trying to sell goods and services politely refuse and close the door.
5.) If someone claims to be of a more official capacity deal with them using the advice that has been forwarded in previous emails with regards to doorstep callers. If anyone needs this advice reiterating please let me know.

If anyone has anyone knock at their door who appears suspicious please do not hesitate to contact the police via 0845 458 0000 as soon as possible after they have called. Please provide whatever details you can about the caller to the police so that any free patrols can make a search of the area for individuals.