A man wrongly believed to be a ‘distraction burglar’ has turned out to be legitimate housing inspector, according to Wiltshire Police.
The force previously issued an appeal for information after a man attended a number of addresses in the Taw Hill area of Swindon in February.
“The man refused to show any identification and on one occasion on February 2, he gained entry to a property and took photos inside the address”, a spokesperson said.
They added: “The man was spotted in the area again on February 14.
“It is not believed anything was taken.
“We have liaised with the housing association who have confirmed the man is not an employee.”
However, Wiltshire Police has today (Monday) confirmed that the man was in fact a genuine professional – a certified housing inspector – working in the area.
In a new statement, a spokesperson said: “Last week, we issued an appeal in relation to a number of suspected distraction burglaries in Taw Hill, Swindon.
“Since the appeal was issued, we have interviewed a man in connection with the incidents and we are happy to confirm that no crime has been committed and the man was in fact a certified housing inspector.
“We are still encouraging residents to be vigilant and check ID’s of all trades people.”
The man who was falsely accused of being a burglar has spoken out, reassuring the public that he has not “gone rogue”.
He said: “In case any of you thought I had gone rogue… Thankfully God has blessed me with a pair of hands and good morals where I don’t have to burgle from anyone for a living!
“Wiltshire Police proving to be very efficient at branding someone as a “distraction burglar” before actually investigating any of the false accusations.
“Looking back a claim to fame perhaps, but when you have to stay out of work with a 3 week old newborn and a partner on maternity leave, it was not enjoyable at all.”
