POLICE have warned family members to be extra vigilant after a Romanian woman who tricked her way into the homes of elderly people by posing as a carer was locked up.

Maria Kwiatkowska, 21, of no fixed address, will be deported following her three year and three month jail term for burglary.

Officers now want residents to be extra careful and have called on the children of people who receive home care to help them with procedures if in doubt.

Kwiatkowska committed numerous crimes in Southend over an 11-day period from April 14, by pretending to be a carer.

She then robbed the victims, all aged in their 80s, of possessions that included high-value jewellery, watches and cash.

Kwiatkowska wore a distinctive floral shirt with large and bright flower images on it and was later identified.

Det Con Stephen Cross said: “Kwiatkowska is a prolific offender who targeted our community’s elderly and vulnerable people for her own financial gain.

“Her crimes were pre-planned and involved gaining entry into her victims’ homes by pretending to be a carer. In one case, Kwiatkowska targeted the home of a person suffering from dementia.

“Kwiatkowska robbed her victims of treasured jewellery including one wedding ring of huge sentimental value.

“She has shown no remorse for her actions and I hope this outcome offers some justice to her victims.”

Kwiatkowska admitted three counts of burglary at Basildon Crown Court.

Kevin Blake, Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator, said residents should never open their door to someone they do not know.

He said: “Anyone who targets the vulnerable in this way is the lowest of the low. “But the advice I would give is the same in any situation - if you are not expecting somebody then don’t open the door. It’s as simple as that.

“If you have got a carer coming round then you will know you have got a carer coming round, you should know the time and their name.

“Anyone from a reputable company will show their ID at the door.”

Anyone who wants a Neighbourhood Watch sticker pack or advice should contact Mr Blake on 101.