Caught: Scum On The Run Who Tricked Way Into OAP's Home

A heartless burglar, who preyed on an octogenarian by tricking his way into her home to steal, has finally been locked-up again.

Peter Kerrigan, 33, was on the run after escaping from a secure mental health facility in 2015, after a burglary conviction.

He avoided capture for five years, despite a national manhunt to trace him, but was finally caught after being identified on a doorbell camera.

Kerrigan, of Queens Crescent, Kentish Town pleaded guilty at Wood Green Crown Court to the Hampstead distraction burglary and escaping custody.

He received four years imprisonment.

Kerrigan absconded the Homerton facility in March, 2015 and remained free until he was caught after posing as a council labourer on March 17, last year to enter the OAP's home.

During the burglary the victim caught Kerrigan in her bedroom looking through her purse.

He fled without stealing any of her property.

Fortunately, the victim had a doorbell, which recorded Kerrigan's arrival and entry into the address.

An investigation was launched by officers from the Metropolitan Police's Central North Basic Command Unit (BCU). 

With an image of the suspect and forensic evidence left behind at the scene, detectives were able to identify Kerrigan.

On Thursday, July 2 Kerrigan was arrested in Camden after being identified by officers.

DC Stacey Whitaker, who led the investigation, said: “Distraction burglary is extremely upsetting and traumatic for those involved therefore it is only right that Kerrigan – who has a history of offending - has received this sentence. 

“I’d like to thank the local community for providing vital information regarding the whereabouts of Kerrigan which led to his arrest.”