Police appeal for information about prolific artifice burglar

Police have warned residents to ask for identification before letting in callers. Photograph: Metropolitan Police

Hackney Police are re-appealing for information about a prolific burglar who absconded from the care of a mental health centre in Homerton.

Peter Kerrigan, who is from the Irish travelling community, is currently serving a six-year sentence for a series of artifice burglaries, in which he impersonated a police officer.

The 28 year-old was under the care of the John Howard Centre when he escaped during escorted leave on Sunday, 29 March this year. He is known to visit Hackney, Brent and Newham.

The police have warned residents to be wary of unknown visitors.

“Treat every stranger with caution. If you are worried, dial 999 immediately and ask for the police,” said Detective Inspector Paul Ridley, from Hackney CID, who is leading the investigation.

“Ask callers for proof of identity. If you are not convinced of their identity, don’t let them in.

“Ask the caller to come back later and arrange for a friend, relative or neighbour to be present on their return or ask the caller to contact this person.”

Photograph: Metropolitan police

Police are re-appealing for information about Kerrigan, who was on the Narrow Way when he absconded.

“It has been eight months since Kerrigan absconded,” said DI Ridley. “He was jailed for committing crimes against the vulnerable and elderly and they still have to live with his actions.

“He needs to be returned to custody to serve the remainder of his prison sentence.

The Detective Inspector urged residents to come forward if they have any information about Kerrigan.

“I am convinced somebody knows of his whereabouts. I can personally assure you that all information received will be treated in the strictest of confidence.”

Officers advise anyone who sees Peter Kerrigan, or knows of his whereabouts, to call 999 immediately.

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through the Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. The charity will provide a reward of up to £1,000 for information leading to the arrest of Kerrigan.