Cleaner Charged Following Thefts from Vulnerable Residents in Shadoxhurst, High Halden and Smeeth

Cleaner Charged Following Thefts from Vulnerable Residents in Shadoxhurst, High Halden and Smeeth

Kent Police has investigated a theft from a property in Shadoxhurst where jewellery and personal possessions were stolen from a vulnerable resident.

A female cleaner was identified as the suspect in all reported offences and was arrested on the 11th September 2026. The female cleaner was already under police-imposed bail conditions for the investigation for theft for similar method of offending in High Halden and Smeeth.

She was charged with four counts of theft from a dwelling committed between 28 August and 9 September 2026 and was charged and put before the court on 12th September 2026.

We would like to reassure residents that incidents of this nature are uncommon, and action has been taken quickly to identify and charge the suspect. Protecting vulnerable members of our community remains a priority, and we will continue to support those affected.

Whilst this is an isolated incident to one offender and the vast majority cleaners are trustworthy and professional, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant. Warning signs can include missing jewellery, cash or valuables after visits, unusual interest in personal possessions, or items being moved without explanation.

Residents and family members are encouraged to:

Keep jewellery, cash, bank cards and other valuables in a secure location.

Consider photographing valuable items and keeping a record of serial numbers where possible.

Use reputable cleaning services and ask for references if employing someone privately.

Regularly check that valuables and important documents are accounted for.

Speak with elderly or vulnerable relatives about who has access to their home.

Be alert if a cleaner takes an unusual interest in valuables, finances or areas of the property outside their agreed duties.

Report any concerns or suspicious activity to Kent Police.

If you believe you or a family member may have been affected by similar circumstances, please share this message and contact Kent Police. Working together, we can help keep our communities safe and protect vulnerable residents from becoming victims of crime.

For further information around reporting crime please click on this link - Report a crime | Kent Police

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Message Sent By
Dan Edge
(Kent Police, Sergeant, Ashford Neighbourhood Policing Team)