Jailed: Bogus Plumber Who Nicked OAP's Jewellery

Plumb Scum: Doyle

A bogus plumber, who tricked his way into an octogenarian lady's home, where an accomplice nicked her jewellery, has been locked-up for five years.

Patrick Doyle, 54, aka Patrick Doran, of no fixed abode told the Purley victim he was investigating a water leak.

He was convicted at Inner London Crown Court of burgling the woman – aged in her eighties – at her home on October 29, 2018.

While Doyle kept the woman occupied in the kitchen, his accomplice went into the bedroom and stole items of jewellery. 

The pair then left the flat and it was only later the woman realised she had been burgled.

Detective launched an investigation and managed to obtain forensic evidence that placed Doyle in the flat. 

Initial enquiries failed to trace him and he was circulated as wanted.

In July, 2019 Doyle was traced to an address in Acton, where he was arrested and subsequently charged.

Detective Sergeant Aaron Champion who led the investigation said: “Patrick Doyle’s actions are disgraceful – he tricked his way into the flat of a vulnerable elderly lady with the sole intention of stealing from her.

“I am glad the jury convicted him and he will now serve time in prison.

“I would urge anyone who is approached by people purporting to be tradesman; don’t let them in and ask them for identification – you can use this to check they are who they say they are. 

Genuine tradespeople will not mind waiting a few minutes while you do this.

“If they are at all in doubt close your door and contact police.”