Suspected cowboy builder arrested after driving pensioner to bank to withdraw cash for repairs
A suspected cowboy builder was arrested by police after reports he drove a vulnerable pensioner to a bank to withdraw hundreds of pounds of cash.
Northumbria Police have praised staff at the Virgin Money bank on Northumberland Street in Newcastle after they tipped off officers last Thursday (April 22) afternoon.
They had called police at about 1.45pm after a 77-year-old woman was driven to the bank by a labourer to withdraw money for repair work at her home.
Staff were concerned that the pensioner had already paid £150 and was asking to withdraw another £900 for after the trader had cold called at her address.
Officers responded to the call and carried out enquiries that established the payment was for a handful of loose bricks at the property.
They were satisfied the labourer was trying to take advantage of the female resident and he was arrested on suspicion of fraud.
Today (Thursday) Chief Inspector Dan Whyte, of Northumbria Police, praised the banking staff who called police about their concerns.
“This was a perfect example of our Banking Protocol in action and I have nothing but praise for the staff at Virgin Money,” said Ch Insp Whyte.
“They were concerned that a woman was being taken advantage of and when we arrived we had those exact same concerns.
“We did not hesitate to place a suspect under arrest and we now have an investigation ongoing to establish whether we have the evidence to bring charges.
“I want to say a huge thank you to the Virgin staff who helped prevent the withdrawal of hundreds of pounds – you are a credit to the community.
“But this is a timely reminder for us to always look out for family, neighbours and vulnerable residents in our area who could be targeted by fraudsters.”
The 31-year-old man arrested has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Anyone who wants to report suspicious behaviour can do so online at the ‘Tell Us Something’ pages of the Northumbria Police website or by calling 101.