The trio posed as police officers before stealing money and a bulldog puppy
(Picture: Met Police)A trio of men who posed as police officers during a violent burglary in Putney have been jailed for a total of 35 years.
Michael Cloherty, 58, of Chipperfield Road, Orpington, Simon Ludlow, 50, of London Road, Mitcham, and Michael Cook, 54, of Northborough Road, London, were all found guilty of aggravated burglary on November 9 at Kingston Crown Court.
Cloherty was given a 13-year prison sentence, Ludlow 12, and Cook 10 years in jail following the seven-day trial.
The burglary took place on November 29, 2021, where the three approached a woman as she was leaving her flat in Arabella Drive, Putney with her three young children.
Wearing caps with word “Police” on them, the trio told the woman they were at the address to conduct a drugs search. When challenged by the victim, the men grabbed her by the throat, forced woman into her home and beat her.
After tying her hands together, the men searched the flat and stole money, Christmas presents, and a two-month old female American extra-large bulldog puppy.
Detective Inspector Dan Whitten from South West Command Unit, added: “This offence involved extensive planning, violence and a disregard for the impact on the vulnerable children present. The offenders clearly posed a wider risk to the public.
“I am pleased they are no longer in a position to cause such considerable harm and hope their convictions serve to reassure the local community.
“I’d like to commend the victim for displaying fortitude despite what must have been a terrifying ordeal and the investigating officers for their tenacity in effectively pursuing this investigation to its rightful conclusion.”
Police are continuing to appeal for information in relation to the stolen puppy which despite efforts, remains outstanding.
Anyone who recognises the dog in the image or anyone who may have been offered an American Bulldog puppy for sale, should contact police. Anyone with information should call 101 quoting 1837/29NOV21.
Unfortunately, there have been occasions where criminals have posed as police officers, both in person and on the phone. If you are unsure about whether the person you’re dealing with is a genuine police officer – stop – and call us on 101 to check their identity. In an emergency always call 999.
