William Patton and Jonathon Banks have been jailed for four years and three years respectively after posing as undercover police officers to gain entry to an elderly man’s home in Shildon, County Durham, before stealing his car and other property.
The two men, both from Shildon, arrived at the victim’s house early on 29 January 2026 carrying walkie-talkies and claimed to be investigating thefts in the area, according to Durham Constabulary. The force published details of their convictions and sentences on 13 November.
How William Patton and Jonathon Banks entered the house
Police said Patton, 33, and Banks, 35, convinced the elderly householder they were undercover officers. While talking to him about supposed local thefts, they took the keys to his car.
The men later returned and tried to remove a tricycle chained outside the property using a pitchfork. When that failed, they stole a pedal bicycle and the man’s car. Roughly an hour later, they also took two pool cues from another vehicle.
Doorbell footage led to their arrest
The victim’s grandson became suspicious after watching footage from the doorbell camera and called 999. Genuine police officers were dispatched, and the two men were identified and arrested. Durham Constabulary said the stolen items were recovered and returned to their owners.
The force has released doorbell-camera footage showing the encounter. The recording shows the men at the property, where they presented themselves as officers.
Prison sentences for Patton and Banks
William Patton, 33, received four years in prison. Durham Constabulary said he pleaded guilty to burglary, theft of a motor vehicle and attempted theft of a pedal cycle. The force gives 30 October as the date of his court appearance.
Jonathon Banks, 35, received three years in prison. Police said he admitted the same offences and an additional count of theft of a pedal cycle. The force gives 27 February as the date of his court appearance.
Both men initially pleaded not guilty before changing their pleas, according to police.
Detective Constable Joshua Chew, who led the investigation, criticised the pair for impersonating officers and even giving the victim supposed crime-prevention advice. He said: “Their actions were atrocious and we are glad to see they are behind bars.”
Watch: Durham Constabulary’s doorbell footage
How to check whether a police officer is genuine
Police guidance says that anyone unsure about an unexpected visitor claiming to be an officer can ask to see a warrant card and call 101 to verify their identity before allowing access. If someone is in immediate danger, call 999. See the police guidance on checking an officer’s identity.
