Investigation and fundraiser launched after vulnerable Sheffield pensioner burgled

Police have launched an investigation after a vulnerable Sheffield pensioner was burgled in the early hours of the morning when thieves smashed their way into her home.
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Ellen Hartley, 77, who lives in Darnall, was awoken in the middle of the night when thieves broke into her home by smashing a rock through her back window then leaning inside to unlock the door.

They stole her purse containing bank cards and £140 as well as her iPhone, which she had been using to communicate with her loved ones while in self-isolation because of a chronic lung disease that puts her at great risk of becoming seriously unwell if infected with coronavirus.

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Ellen Hartley from Darnall, who was burgled in the early hours of Saturday morning.Ellen Hartley from Darnall, who was burgled in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Ellen Hartley from Darnall, who was burgled in the early hours of Saturday morning.

A fundraising page has since been set up to raise money to pay off the remainder of Ellen’s phone contract and replace the £140 stolen.

Police also confirmed they are investigating the incident.

A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police told The Star: “An investigation is underway following a reported burglary in the Darnall area of Sheffield in the early hours of yesterday morning (Saturday 2 May).

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“Shortly after 2am, it’s understood that persons unknown gained access to the address in James Street. It’s believed they stole a purse containing £140 in cash, as well as an iPhone.

Thieves smashed through Ellen's back window then leant through to unlock the door.Thieves smashed through Ellen's back window then leant through to unlock the door.
Thieves smashed through Ellen's back window then leant through to unlock the door.

“Enquiries are ongoing.”

Anyone with information should contact 101 and quote investigation number 14/69730/20. You can donate to Ellen here.

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