An investigation is under way after a burglary in Sunderland where an elderly man was targeted.
Shortly before 7pm on December 30 last year, officers were alerted to a burglary at an address on Pickard Street.
A man in his 70s had been befriended by a stranger in a nearby shop and the man then proceeded to walk home with him.
Then while the victim was distracted, the offender stole two gold sovereign rings, three large gold crucifixes and gold chains from inside before making off.
Officers have now released a CCTV image of a man they want to trace in connection with the incident.
A spokesperson for Northumbria Police said: "An investigation was launched immediately after the incident with officers following a number of lines of enquiry.
"Now they have identified a man who they would like to speak to in connection with the offence. He was seen at the local shop on the night in question and could have information that can assist officers with their investigation.
"The man, or anyone who recognises him, is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website or by calling 101 quoting log 886 301220."
