Elderly targeted in 'distraction burglary spree' as woman, 88, injured

The suspect is accused of 17 offences across Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Sandwell and Solihull - he has also been charged with absconding from HMP Springhill in Buckinghamshire

Elderly people across the West Midlands have been targeted in what police are calling a “distraction burglary spree”. A suspect - who also allegedly absconded from prison - has been charged with 17 offences across Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Sandwell and Solihull.

Bernard McDonagh is alleged to have fooled people before taking off with money - including during an incident that involved an 88-year-old woman. The 59-year-old has also been charged with absconding from HMP Springhill in Buckinghamshire.

He was due to appear before Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, October 12. West Midlands Police said it still wanted more information on the alleged crimes.

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A spokesperson for the force said: “Bernard McDonagh has now been charged with 17 offences which include burglary, robbery, assault with intent to commit robbery and attempted burglary. This in relation to a string of offences in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Sandwell and Solihull over recent weeks.

“Many of the burglaries targeted elderly victims and in one incident an 88-year-old woman was assaulted in Erdington. Officers worked diligently to trace the suspect who was arrested following a raid in South Yardley.

“We're also grateful for all the support and information we've received from the public during our enquiries so far. We still want information about the distraction burglaries, and to hear from anyone else who may have been a victim.”

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