February 7, 2012 - Investigators in the Houston Police Department Major Offenders Division are asking for the public's assistance in identifying a suspect believed responsible for a home burglary at 9801 Palmfield about 5 p.m. on January 7.

The suspect is described only as a Hispanic or white male in his late 40s to early 50s, about 5 feet 8 inches tall. He has stained teeth, as he is believed to be a smoker, and a very unkempt appearance. A composite sketch of the suspect is attached to this news release.

The suspect approached the victim, a 75-year-old woman, in her front yard, told her he was with Centerpoint Energy and that he needed to speak with her about re-routing power lines in her backyard. The elderly woman followed the suspect into the backyard and, at some point during the conversation, the suspect abruptly walked off toward Old Galveston Road. The victim then walked back inside her house and saw her purse and its contents dumped on the floor. She later discovered cash and jewelry missing from the residence.

Anyone with information in this case is urged to contact the HPD Major Offenders Division Swindle Unit at 713-308-3100 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.