Burglar named as one of region's most wanted

A prolific burglar has become one of West Midlands Police's most wanted men.

John Francis McDonagh, aged 41, a member of the travelling community, is being hunted by police investigating several offences of distraction burglary and for breaching a recall to prison.

It follows a man posing as several different officials, including council workers and police officers, to get into the homes of elderly residents in October last year.

There were two burglaries — one in Runcorn Road, Balsall Heath, and one in Barn Meadow in Yardley.

He is also wanted for questioning about a burglary at a house later the same month in Redwood Croft, Kings Heath, where the caller claimed to be from Age Concern.

On all three occasions the suspect stole small quantities of cash. McDonagh is also being investigated for a similar offence in Manchester as well as a recall to prison for breaching his licence following release from prison, where he was serving a sentence for handling stolen goods in October, 2009.

He is described as white, around 5ft 7in tall, slim with cropped black hair and green eyes.

Detective chief inspector Nick Walton from Stechford police station said: "McDonagh has a history of distraction burglaries, and will probably be committing crime now, so, clearly, we are keen to catch him and stop him from committing any more.

"Whilst he generally does not steal an enormous amount of cash, he targets elderly people who are more vulnerable. If the public have any information that would help us to find and arrest McDonagh I would urge them to get in touch."

And West Midlands Police today issued the following tips to elderly and vulnerable people to combat distraction burglars.

Officers warned residents to listen out for neighbours calling for help and to install spy-holes, locks and chains on their front door to provide extra security.

People were asked to visit elderly neighbours regularly and to ask callers for ID. Police also warned residents to take note of suspicious cars and descriptions of possible offenders. For further advice visit the police website at http://www.west-midlands.police.uk/safer homes/distraction_burglary/index.htm