Crack down on rogue traders

Some 50 vehicles were stopped and 44 traders questioned in the county in Operation Liberal, which was led by the national distraction burglary intelligence unit.

Two vehicles were seized for having no tax or insurance and 13 traders were warned by trading standards officers about their working practices.

Police evidence suggests that some distraction burglars have diversified their criminal activity into rogue trading and doorstep crime.

DCI Peter Gallagher, south east regional lead for distraction burglary said: “Rogue traders tend to prey on the elderly and vulnerable, and we have seen cases where victims have lost thousands of pounds, paying for work that is substandard, unnecessary and overpriced.

“We work alongside partner agencies such as Trading Standards, our neighbouring forces and Operation Liberal to crack down on these offenders and spread the message that this practice will not be tolerated. By working together within our communities we also try to reduce the fear of this type of crime and we identify target hardening opportunities to potential victims".

Hampshire County Council leader Ken Thornber said: “I am very pleased with the results from this year’s operation and I hope that it will not only act as a warning to rogue traders that they will not be tolerated in Hampshire, but also raise awareness of how residents are being protected from falling victim.

“By continuing to work together with our partners to look out for householders and genuine traders, we can drive rogue traders out of our county.”

It is not illegal for traders to sell at the door. Rogue traders will turn up unexpectedly and offer to do work, like gardening or fixing the roof for a minimal fee. Typically the work will not be needed and the end result is often substandard and costs significantly more than the original quote.

Anyone who suspects a rogue trader is on their doorstep can contact the police immediately on 999, or call Hampshire County Council Trading Standards Quick Response Team (QRT) on 01962 833666.

The QRT can head immediately to a caller’s home when alerted and intervene in cases of shoddy or overpriced work to protect residents from potentially handing over thousands of pounds.

Anyone with information that would lead to the arrest of any distraction burglar or rogue trader can call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.