Fraudster and Burglar Posed as Official, Targets Vulnerable Elderly
A notorious crook has been jailed for eight years after posing as a government official to rip off vulnerable and elderly victims in Sheffield and Rotherham.
Michael Brooke’s Deceitful Crime Spree
Michael Brooke, 54, a drifter with no fixed address, stalked several homes claiming to be a police officer or council worker. His crime binge kicked off on December 28, 2021, when he sold a dodgy TV he didn’t even own via bank transfer.
On January 8, Brooke sold fake jewellery at a Fitzalan Square store, telling staff he’d bought the items at a car boot sale. Just a few days later, on January 11, he pulled off three burglaries in Rotherham while pretending to be an official.
Matters escalated on January 12 when Brooke broke into a Sheffield house, claiming to discuss CCTV cameras. He stole a handbag before making a quick getaway, using lies to distract his victim once more.
Police Condemn Brooke’s Ruthless Actions
“Michael Brooke shamelessly preyed on vulnerable people for his own gain, repeatedly lying to them to get into their properties and stealing from them,” said Dan Priest from Sheffield’s burglary investigation team. “We will always work to prevent such incidents and protect the most vulnerable in our communities, including the elderly.”
Guilty Plea Lands Brooke in Jail
Brooke admitted to two counts of fraud and four burglaries at Sheffield Crown Court on June 7. He was slammed with an eight-year prison sentence. Two other burglary charges remain on file after Brooke declined to enter a plea.
