A WOMAN has been charged as part of an investigation into thefts in Harlow where an elderly man was targeted.

It was reported the victim, a man in his 70s, had been befriended by a woman in Harlow on the cycle tracks and then withdrawn money between 6 and 9 September.

His bank card was also used without his knowledge or permission.

A 43 year-old woman has been arrested and charged in connection with our investigation.

Sarah Lodge, of Whitewaits, Harlow has been charged with three counts of theft and one of sexual assault.

She is next due to appear at Basildon Magistrates’ Court on 5 October.

If you have any information or CCTV, dash cam or any other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

Please quote the crime reference number 42/247190/22.

You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.

Alternatively you can call us on 101.

In an emergency always call 999.

If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.