Crimewatch assist appeal to find violent burglar who tied up pensioner in own home

An investigation into a violent burglary in Sevenoaks which saw a pensioner tied up and assaulted in her own home is being assisted on national television and includes new footage and a voice recording of the suspect.

Detectives are working with BBC’s Crimewatch Live as part of a renewed appeal for information to help find a man who beat his helpless victim with what appeared to be a handgun before ransacking her property of valuables. 

The burglary happened at a residential property near Wildernesse Golf Club, at around 3.55pm on Friday 21 June 2024.

The suspect initially approached the victim in her garden and struck her head with the gun.

The woman was then restrained whilst searches for valuables were carried out inside the property. At least 50 items were stolen, including rings, pendants and watches.

Further violent crimes linked

Kent Police published several appeals following the burglary, after officers identified CCTV images of a suspect on a bike.

He was established to have also used the train network and had accessed stations including Staplehurst, Marden and Hildenborough. 

The man was wearing a face mask, cream coloured baseball cap and had trainers with distinctive red soles. He sometimes wore a high-visibility top when cycling.

An extensive investigation remains ongoing, and the suspect is now also being formally linked to at least five other burglaries in Kent since 2016.

These include victims in Tonbridge, Maidstone, Marden and Ide Hill near Westerham.

On 18 March 2025, Detective Inspector Maxine Harris appeared on Crimewatch to talk about the investigation and to urge viewers to listen to an audio clip which includes demands made by the offender to his victim. 

Distinctive bag

The show also aired some of the latest images linked to the case, including that of a bag carried by the suspect.

This was described as possibly a Timbuk2 brand.

Enhanced photos were also published of the suspect’s appearance and clothing, as well as his partially disguised face.

Detective Inspector Maxine Harris said:

‘We are continuing to make significant and extensive enquiries to track down the man responsible for this cowardly assault and burglary. 'It is possible he has strong connections to the Staplehurst area, although we are not discounting that he may live outside of Kent. He should not be approached.'

DI Harris added:

‘Our officers have been making further house-to-house enquiries throughout the Staplehurst area and we are now also urging residents to listen to the audio recording of the suspect’s voice, which includes demands made to his terrified victim. 'If you think this voice sounds even vaguely familiar to someone you may know it is vital that you contact us.’

Can you help?

Anyone with information which may assist the investigation can provide this through our online portal. 

You can also call Kent Police on 01622 652006 quoting reference 46/102682/24.

If you prefer to be anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, or by using the online form.