Prolific bogus caller jailed for seven years
Reporter: Dawn Marsden
Date published: 23 July 2010
MARTIN CLIFFORD. . . one-man crimewave
A ONE-MAN crimewave who was wanted by four different police forces has been jailed for seven years.
Clifford Martin, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to 22 counts of burglary and one of possession of cannabis at Manchester’s Minshull Street Crown Court.
He also asked for a further 63 burglary offences to be taken into account.
The 55-year-old carried out dozens of distraction burglaries across Greater Manchester, South Yorkshire, Lancashire and Leicestershire between 2002 and 2010.
Officers in Oldham noticed an increase in bogus caller burglaries earlier this year, prompting them to set up an operation that resulted in his arrest in March when he attempted to steal from elderly women in Nursery Road, Failsworth.
Martin’s method was usually the same. He exploited the kindness and trust of older people to get into their homes, often pretended to be a handyman or council worker, or simply asked for a cup of tea while he waited for a friend.
He stole cash ranging from loose change to £1,000 as well as jewellery, ID cards, handbags, wallets and even bus passes.
He carried out the thefts to feed his drug and alcohol habits. No violence was used in any offences.
Det Sgt Doug Cowan, of Greater Manchester Police’s Serious Crime Division, said: “Once inside the house Martin waited for an opportunity to steal money and valuables from his victims, and this was often all the money these people had. Martin’s offending was incredibly calculated. It was committed against vulnerable people, most of them elderly, and it had a damaging effect on their confidence and quality of life.
“Everyone’s home is their sanctuary. No-one should ever have their home invaded in this way.
“I am pleased that we have managed to bring his crimewave to an end and that Martin can no longer bring misery into people’s lives.
“I would advise residents to be extra vigilant when answering their door to anyone. If you don’t know the person, or are not expecting them, do not let them in.”
