Monday, December 12, 2011

Don't Fall Victim to a Distraction Burglary

Last Wednesday, December 7, 2011, the Arcadia Police Department received two reports of ruse or distraction burglaries: one occurring in the 700 block of South Golden West Avenue, and the second, in the 400 block of Fairview Avenue.  Both crimes were committed within about 30 minutes of each other, at 10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., occurred in close proximity, and the circumstances of each event were similar.

In each occurrence, elderly victims were approached outside of their residence by a lone male who said they needed to inspect the water flow inside the home.  The victims allowed the male suspect to enter the home and move freely about the residence, unattended.  The suspect told the victims he worked for either a private water company and/or for a homeowners association.  Jewelry was taken in both burglaries.

The male suspect was described as either White or Hispanic, 40 years old, 6'-00", stocky or muscular build, and he was wearing a brown jacket and gray pants in one of the burglaries.

Anytime someone approaches you or comes to your residence, obtain identification and confirm their identity. There are legitimate times when a City employee, gas, electric, telephone, or other service worker may require entrance to your exterior property. These persons should be in some form of uniform, have identification, and most likely a marked vehicle. Unless you placed the service call, do not allow anyone access to your home. If the person is suspicious or uncooperative, immediately call the police. Anyone with information should call APD Detectives at (626) 574-5160.

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