Police Warn Lake County Residents Of Recent Ruse Burglary
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Officials in Lake County were urging residents to be on alert, after an elderly resident was the victim of a ruse burglary.
Someone recently approached the victim in Cuba Township, and claimed to be a repair worker specializing in Unilock pavers.
"While they're distracting the elderly person outdoors, someone else is coming in and ransacking the house," said Lake County Sheriff's Sgt. Curtis Gregory.
Police said this type of crime seems to be more frequent over the last few years, and most often targets elderly residents.
Gregory said people can stay safe by double-checking with their utility company if someone comes to their home unannounced, claiming to be a utility worker.
Police also warned residents not to allow anyone in their home if they do not know the person, or unless it is a scheduled appointment.
Other ruses include burglars claiming to be performing blacktop or other driveway repairs, inquiring about water pressure, checking on electrical problems, offering gutter repairs or other work, notifying them about problems with a neighbor's house, checking on property lines, or asking about homes for sale in the neighborhood.