Burglar who targeted vulnerable elderly women is jailed

A burglar who targeted the homes of elderly women living alone has been jailed for four years and eight months.

Aaron Winzar, 36, of Gresham Road, Bournemouth, appeared at Winchester Crown Court yesterday (20th November) and was sentenced for his involvement in four burglaries and one attempted burglary.

Two of these offences were committed in Salisbury, and all of his victims were women between the ages of 82 and 90.

Complex Crime Investigator Bianca Ledbury said, "Winzar has repeatedly targeted residential areas inhabited by elderly or otherwise vulnerable people, often individuals living alone.

"He would approach the victims under the guise of a legitimate plumbing appointment, claiming he needed to inspect their appliances. Once he has gained their trust, he would ask the victim to check another part of the property while he carried out a quick but systematic search for cash. He would then leave swiftly, leaving his victims initially unaware they had been burgled until he was long gone.

"Winzar was given the opportunity of earning an honest living with a reputable company, yet he chose to discard it and has continued offending ever since. He has never shown remorse or admitted responsibility for his actions, forcing police to undertake extensive enquiries and delaying justice for the elderly victims, who have demonstrated remarkable patience in the aftermath of such distressing crimes. Thankfully, he ultimately chose not to subject the elderly women involved to the ordeal of a trial.

"The long-lasting impact of burglary on its victims far outweighs the brief financial gain offenders receive. While no one was physically injured in these incidents, both victims continue to experience the emotional and psychological consequences of his actions. In hearing all the Victim Personal Statements read out to the court, the same themes of the victims feeling embarrassed or ashamed that they were duped and the substantial loss they feel because of the money that was stolen from them was apparent.

"Winzar has previously claimed to me that he is a “changed man,” yet he went on to commit other burglaries shortly afterwards. Judge Parker described his planned dishonesty as ‘entirely selfish, cynical and bordering on cruel,’ and I agree with him. Only time will tell if Winzar turns to an honest living in future, which he is more than capable of doing."

"Although Winzar was able to enter one victim's home because he had worked for a legitimate company, the rest of the victims were lied to, and he rehearsed his fabricated reasons for his arrival. I encourage anyone arranging renovation or maintenance work in their home to thoroughly research the company they use or individual attending. If someone arrives at your property claiming to be there for legitimate reasons, always ask for identification and do not allow them inside until their identity and purpose have been fully verified, and make use of online services such as Check a Trade."