CCTV footage captured the moment two suspects targeted an elderly man in his eighties, stealing a bag of cash from his mobility walker on Dudley High Street. The incident occurred just before midday on August 3rd, shortly after the man had exited a Lloyds Bank branch.
The Theft
Witnesses reported that one of the perpetrators loitered near the bank, appearing to talk on his phone, before approaching the victim as he walked along the pavement. For over two minutes, this suspect engaged with the elderly man, using a tissue to wipe his forehead and arms under the guise of assistance, while steering him to the side and manipulating his walking aid to create confusion. During this distraction, the second suspect approached from behind, quickly removed a blue plastic bag filled with cash from the walker, and passed it to his accomplice. The pair then fled across the road, leaving the victim visibly distressed and searching his belongings.
Phil Walters, who runs a nearby bar, was among the first to assist the victim. He described the man as "very shaken and upset" and confirmed he had just withdrawn a "wad of cash" from the bank. Walters noted the victim's frailty, estimating his age to be at least 80. "I was absolutely sickened when I saw the footage," said Penny Corbett, Walters' partner, expressing outrage at the targeted nature of the crime. "It seems like they singled him out because he looked like an easy target."
Police Appeal
West Midlands Police have released descriptions of the two suspects and are appealing for public assistance. One man is described as having short dark hair, wearing a long dark top and tracksuit bottoms. The second man was seen wearing a grey long-sleeved top, a black baseball cap, tracksuit bottoms, bright blue shoes, and had a short stubble beard. He was also carrying a large black bag. The force is reviewing CCTV footage from the area and interviewing local businesses.
Authorities are urging anyone who recognizes the individuals or has any information to contact them by calling 101, using the Live Chat option on their website, or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting crime number 20/349584/26. A dedicated Neighbourhood Team is patrolling the High Street to provide reassurance to the community.