Police looking for online dating predator

Thursday, 27 February 2014 - 3:03pm

Canterbury

 Shane William Grogan, also known as Shane Calder, is sought by Police over dishonesty offences.

Christchurch Police are seeking to locate a man wanted over a string of dishonesty offences, allegedly committed after preying on women he met on internet dating sites.

Shane William Grogan, also known as Shane Calder, aged 46, of Christchurch, is described as a European, 188cm (6ft 2in) tall and of thin build.

Grogan is wanted on warrants in relation to charges of theft from a dwelling, using a document for pecuniary advantage and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

Police say they are aware of at least three cases where Grogan is alleged to have befriended women through internet dating sites, then travelled to meet them.

On the first occasion, in October 2013, Grogan travelled to Rotorua and stayed with a woman, aged in her 50s, he had met online. He left abruptly, allegedly taking belongings from the victim including a bankcard which was used to withdraw money, and a car which was later recovered.

In November 2013 Grogan travelled to the Palmerston North area to meet another online contact, a woman aged in her 30s. He stayed at the victim's home for a week, and proposed to her before again leaving abruptly, allegedly taking cash and belongings.

The most recent incident occurred around New Year when Grogan travelled to Waimate to meet another woman, aged in her 50s, he met through a dating website. He stayed with her for six days but left after allegedly stealing valuable heirloom jewellery and a computer.

Police established that Grogan had returned to Christchurch and pawned some of the stolen items. Some of the stolen jewellery has now been recovered.

Acting Sergeant Chris Macpherson says the alleged offending was particularly deceptive and predatory.

"The offender has taken advantage of his victims after posing as a friend and gaining their trust along with access to their homes and belongings.

"While we are aware of these three cases, it is possible there are other victims of Grogan, or Calder, as they may have known him.

"We urge any other victims to come forward and contact Police."

"We are anxious to hear from anyone who knows where Grogan is, or has information on his whereabouts or his recent movements."

Acting Sergeant Macpherson says the case also serves as a warning on the dangers of befriending strangers through internet sites.

"Not everyone on internet dating sites is a criminal - but there certainly are some people who use these services to deceive and prey on victims.

"We always urge people to be cautious about people they meet online and not rush into relationships before they are certain of their character and intentions."

Anyone with information on Grogan's whereabouts is asked to contact Christchurch police on (03) 3637400.

Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

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