Police are appealing for information and urging the public to be vigilant following a suspicious incident which took place around 11.30am on Wednesday 27th September when two people, one male and one female, attended a women’s address in Fernbank, Livingston.
The pair claimed to be from the Scottish SPCA (Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and were enquiring as to the welfare of her dog.
The women let the people into her home after they presented SSPCA identification badges. The people asked questions about the dog and proceeded to inspect the property.The woman asked for a Scottish SPCA reference number for the visit which shocked the pair who subsequently left.
The man is described as white, in his late 30s, 5’9’’ tall, stocky build, with a bald head and a west coast accent and was wearing black trousers and a black jacket. He also is described as having a large scar to the left of his neck.
The female is described as mixed-race, 5’6’’ tall, slim build, with dark hair and was wearing black trousers and a black jacket. She is described as having tattoos of a flower and playing cards symbols on her left hand.
Sergeant Iain Wells of Livingston Police Station said, “Fortunately on this occasion neither the dog nor the lady were harmed and nothing has been reported stolen.
“I would appeal for the public to be vigilant and ensure you ask for identification and if in any doubt do not let the persons in until their identity can be verified by the agency or company. Always remember that you are under no obligation to let a stranger into your home if you are unsure.”
Scottish SPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said, “We are saddened to hear of people impersonating our inspectors who work hard to build positive community relationships. Under no circumstances will an Inspector or Animal Rescue Officer attend an address without full uniform and official identification. The Scottish SPCA uniform can be identified by the branded epaulettes and logo across the front of the jacket.
“If you are at all unsure about a visit made by one of our inspectors please call our animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1888 of 27 September, or make an anonymous report through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
