Maidstone Plumber Pretender Jailed for Targeting Pensioner
A crafty doorstep crook who claimed to be a plumber has been locked up for robbing an elderly Maidstone woman. John Gallagher, 49, conned his way into the pensioner’s home before making off with over £200 in cash.
Fake Plumber Tricks Woman on Her Own Doorstep
On the evening of 4 September 2018, Gallagher turned up in the Fant area of Maidstone dressed in a high-vis vest. Ringing the doorbell of an 80-year-old woman’s home, he spun a story about a flooded neighbour’s flat and needed to turn off the water supply inside her house.
Gallagher persuaded the pensioner to stay in the kitchen while he disappeared towards the bathroom. He even shouted instructions for her to turn the taps on and off. But the savvy victim soon became suspicious and told him to leave.
Suspicions Confirmed as Cash Vanishes
After Gallagher left, the woman discovered her handbag moved and more than £200 missing from another room. Thankfully, CCTV footage captured the visit, which helped police identify and arrest Gallagher three months later.
Judge Hands Down a Heavy Sentence
Gallagher pleaded not guilty but was convicted after a two-day trial at Maidstone Crown Court on 21 May. The judge sentenced him to a hefty nine-year jail term for the burglary.
“This was a despicable crime targeting a pensioner who thought she was helping a neighbour,” said District Commander Chief Inspector Ray Quiller. “The victim bravely ordered him out, but he had already stolen her money. It’s right Gallagher faces a long jail sentence to protect vulnerable residents.”
Chief Inspector Quiller also praised the victim and witnesses for their role in nabbing the thief. Gallagher’s jail time sends a clear message: leave pensioners alone or pay the price behind bars.
