Distraction Burglars Targeted Residential Building For The Elderly

Deborah Arthur

Two heartless women burglars – who targeted elderly people in their own homes – have been locked-up for tricking their way into a residential building.

Deborah Arthur, 43, of no fixed abode, received three-and-a-half years and Fortunata Paczkowska, 30, of Bury Street, Lower Edmonton received five years.

Snaresbrook Crown Court heard the duo were seen on CCTV at 8.00pm on January 26 pressing the intercom to enter Ajex House, East Bank, Stoke Newington.

Once inside, they spoke to several residents and attempted to gain access to their flats.

A 79-year-old male resident allowed them into his flat after they convinced him to read a letter.

Once inside the address, they stole several items, including cash and credit cards.



Fortunata Paczkowska

The suspects’ images were circulated in the local press and a local resident called police after seeing the image of Paczkowska in a local newspaper.

They were both charged with artifice burglary and remanded in custody.

Paczkowska was also charged with another distraction burglary at Ajex House on March 8, last year involving a victim who was a 91-year-old man. 



Detective Constable Anwen Clissold, from Hackney’s East Area Detections Team, said: “These two women were clearly trying to target a number of residents at the location.

“I hope this case highlights the willingness of the public to help us identify offenders in Hackney.