She Asked for a Glass of Water. Moments Later, Money Disappeared from the Apartment

Police officers from the Police Station in Szklarska Poręba detained a 39-year-old resident of Kamienna Góra County, suspected of a series of thefts in the city. According to investigators’ findings, in June and July the woman allegedly committed at least two crimes, taking advantage of her victims’ trust and momentary inattention.

The first incident occurred when the woman knocked on the door of one of Szklarska Poręba’s residents and asked for a glass of water. When the apartment’s owner went to the kitchen to prepare the drink, the suspect allegedly took advantage of the situation and stole money kept in the apartment.

In the second case, the perpetrator allegedly took advantage of a house door that had been left open. She entered and took cash, a wallet, a payment card and gold jewelry, then left the property before the owners realized that a theft had occurred.

The total value of the stolen property was estimated at nearly PLN 10,000.

After receiving the reports, police officers launched intensive operations. The officers analyzed the information collected and surveillance footage secured during the investigation. The evidence gathered enabled them to identify a suspect, who was detained in Kamienna Góra.

The 39-year-old has already been charged with theft. This type of offense is punishable by up to five years in prison. Investigators are continuing efforts to recover the stolen property and are checking whether the detained woman may be connected to other similar incidents.

Police warn residents

Officers remind residents that thieves often use seemingly innocent pretexts to enter a home or distract household members. They may ask for water, request to use the bathroom, ask to make a phone call, or pretend to represent foundations, service companies or people collecting clothing.

Police urge residents to always lock entrance doors, even during a brief absence or while staying in another part of the property. It is also advisable not to let strangers into the apartment, not to leave money and valuables in easily accessible places, and to exercise caution around people who try to enter the home without prior notice.

If a stranger’s behavior raises suspicions, the Police should be notified as soon as possible. As officers emphasize, a moment of caution and limited trust toward strangers can effectively protect people from losing money and valuable items.