09/16/2026
Good info to share!
๐จ Have you heard of ruse burglaries?๐จ
A ruse burglary occurs when offenders use deception or distraction to gain access to a home and steal valuables. These crimes are often carried out by two people. One person distracts the resident while another enters the home unnoticed.
Offenders may pose as:
๐น Utility workers checking water, gas, or electrical lines
๐น Contractors offering driveway, roofing, or sealcoating services
๐น Municipal employees claiming there is an issue with property lines, utilities, or home safety
Residents can help protect themselves and their neighbors by following these safety tips:
๐ชช Ask for identification. Always request identification and verify who the person is before allowing anyone onto your property or into your home.
๐ช Keep your doors locked. Never leave your front door unlocked or unattended while speaking with someone at your door.
๐ฑ Don't hand over your phone. If someone asks to use your phone or requests assistance, offer to call the police or emergency services for them instead.
๐ด Check on elderly family members and neighbors. Older adults are often targeted by these types of scams. A quick conversation about these tactics can help prevent someone from becoming a victim.
๐ฃ๏ธ Talk about it. Share this information with friends, family, and neighbors so everyone knows what to watch for.
๐ฒ Report suspicious activity. If you believe someone is attempting to gain access to your home under false pretenses, call 911. If it is safe to do so, try to note the vehicle's license plate number, make, model, and color, along with a description of the individuals involved.
Trust your instincts. If something doesn't seem right, don't let them in.
Staying alert, asking questions, and looking out for one another can help prevent ruse burglaries and keep our community safe. ๐