Callous thief steals cash from disabled woman (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Thief snatches cash from woman at ATM machine

4:43pm Thursday 17th January 2013 in News By Barbara Jordan

A CALLOUS thief stole money from a disabled woman an ATM in Widnes this morning.

The 62-year-old woman was withdrawing cash from Albert Square when she was approached by a man on a bike.

He distracted her attention and snatched £185 in cash and her bank card.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Beauchamp said: "This is a sickening crime whereby the suspect has preyed on the perceived vulnerabilities of his victim.

“The lady, who is of limited mobility and is assisted by the use of a mobility scooter, was out selflessly grocery shopping on behalf of friends when the thief struck.

"Fortunately, crimes of this nature are uncommon. Our officers and PCSOs are providing a high-visibility presence in the area to reassure the local community that we are doing all we can to track down the person responsible and bring him to justice."

The woman was left shaken but was not hurt.

She managed to take swift action and cancel her bank card.

The theft happened at 8.20am.

The suspect, who had a thin build and dressed in a dark tracksuit, rode off towards Albert Road.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident 112 of 17 January.

Information can also be passed on anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.