Two reports were received yesterday in relation to a young male juvenile door knocking and claiming to be collecting monetary donations for a disability service.
The young male has been prepared and allegedly carried a jar to collect the donations.
Senior and elderly members of our community have been targeted and befriended by the young male, who has then distracted the senior person and allegedly stolen their personal accessories, including cash.
The young male may also ask for a drink of water and gain access to the home if the door is left open or unlocked.
Please encourage senior and elderly family members or neighbourly residents to be cautious when answering their door and donating money to anyone.
Police wish to remind you that if it happens to be your door, remember to ask:
- Why aren’t you with an adult?
- Has your school publicly advertised the fundraising initiative?
- Can I donate to the organisation online after verifying details?
Regardless of the answers you may receive, times have changed and due to some opportunistic motives by a small number of youth, it’s in your best interest to conduct your own research before handing over cash or inviting the unknown in.
Offer your assistance by:
- Taking a good description of the young person/group
- Noting the time of visit
- Calling Bundaberg Police or Policelink to report suspicious behaviour
- Talking with senior family members to raise their awareness
Anyone with information which could assist with this matter should contact Crime Stoppers anonymously via 1800 333 000 or crimestoppers.com.au 24hrs a day.
Crime Stoppers is a registered charity and community volunteer organisation working in partnership with the Queensland Police Service.
For all non-urgent police reporting or general police inquiries contact Policelink on 131 444 or Policelink.qld.gov.au 24hrs a day.