Fake Plumber Jailed for Preying on Elderly Maidstone Pensioner
A doorstep crook who posed as a plumber has been locked up for robbing over £200 from a vulnerable pensioner in Maidstone.
Posing as Plumber to Gain Entry
On 4 September 2018, John Gallagher, 49, turned up at a home in the Fant area wearing a high-vis tabard. Claiming a neighbour’s flat was flooded, he told the woman in her 80s he needed to shut off the water supply.
Once inside, Gallagher directed the pensioner into the kitchen and disappeared towards the bathroom. He shouted instructions for her to turn the taps on and off – but the lady soon grew suspicious and demanded he leave.
Theft Caught on CCTV Leads to Arrest
Despite her quick thinking, Gallagher had already spotted and stolen more than £200 from her handbag in an adjacent room. CCTV footage captured the entire episode, helping police track him down.
Gallagher was arrested on 4 December 2018 and charged with burglary.
Lengthy Jail Term for ‘Despicable’ Crime
At Maidstone Crown Court, Gallagher pleaded not guilty but was convicted after a two-day trial on 21 May. He was sentenced to nine years behind bars.
“This was a despicable crime targeting a pensioner who thought she was helping a neighbour,” said Chief Inspector Ray Quiller.
“The victim correctly became suspicious and bravely ordered him to leave but he had already stolen her money. It is right that Gallagher is serving a long jail sentence and vulnerable residents are protected from his criminality.”
“I would like to commend the victim and witnesses for their assistance in bringing this burglar to justice.”
