News Release - Residential Distraction Burglaries

Incident:                                             Residential Distraction Burglaries

Date and Time of Release:                        June 8, 2012, 1:00 p.m.

Over the course of the last year or two, we have seen an increase in reports of residential distraction burglaries.  This type of residential burglary is not unique to Arcadia, and has been reported throughout the San Gabriel Valley to other police agencies.  However, it is always good to remind our community about these crimes in order to increase awareness and help prevent them from occurring in the future.

These distraction burglaries are usually committed during daytime hours and the victims are older in age.  The primary suspect will contact the victim, either outside in the yard, or at the door.  The suspect will state they are from entities such as the water company, a construction company, or perhaps even the City.  Many times, the suspect will say they need to check on water faucets and ask to enter the home, hoping to gain the trust and cooperation of the victim.  Once inside, the suspect will distract the victim and take items themselves, or perhaps have an accomplice enter the home to commit the crime.

Anytime someone approaches you, or comes to your residence asking to come in or perform work, obtain identification and confirm their identity.  There may be times when a City employee, gas, electric, telephone, water, or other service worker may require entrance to your exterior property.  Legitimate service workers should be in some form of uniform, have identification, and most likely be driving a clearly marked company 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, or dial 9-1-1.  Our dispatchers can be reached at (626) 574-5123.

If you have older neighbors, friends, or relatives, please share this information with them and help increase their awareness to this type of crime.

Anyone with information on these crimes is asked to call the Arcadia Police Department at (626)574-5156.  You can also submit crime tips and information via text, phone, or web to LA Regional Crime Stoppers, 800-222-TIPS (8477).

Robert T. Guthrie, Chief of Police

By:      Tom Le Veque

            Lieutenant