A MAN who posed as a gas man to steal from elderly people’s homes in Barnet has been jailed for five-and-a-half years.

Michael Sammie, of Swaythling Close, Edmonton, used his disguise to gain entry into six homes between February and May this year.

The 44-year-old deliberately targeted vulnerable people in their 70s and 80s, some of whom had severe mobility and health problems.

Sammie, who also said he worked for an electricity company, pretended he needed to survey meters, switches or light bulbs.

Once inside he asked his victims to go into different rooms to monitor lights which he pretended to test.

Left alone, Sammie took their valuables including jewellery, cash and bank and pension cards.

The thefts have had a traumatic effect on some of the victims who live in South Kensington and Islington as well as Finchley, Cricklewood and Golders Green.

One 77-year-old victim, who has lived in Finchley all his life, said: “He stole my grandfather’s signet ring and my mother’s wedding ring and it meant so much to get these back – It’s not the cost but it’s the sentimental value.

“To prey on vulnerable people is unforgivable and I am so glad he has been caught. I would urge anyone who has a caller at the door to ask for identification, these men are so plausible.”

Passing sentence Judge Carr said Sammie’s crimes were premeditated, “particularly despicable and cowardly”.

Sammie was sentenced to five and a half years at Wood Green Court on August 31.