The Lombard Police Department recently responded to a report of a ruse burglary in which a male wearing a reflective vest informed a resident that he was investigating an issue with bacteria in the water in the area. One of the residents allowed the man to enter the home and run the faucet. At this time, another resident of the home discovered other males inside a bedroom of the home. The four males fled along with the male in the reflective vest. They left the area in a black Nissan Armada with darkly tinted windows and unknown registration plates. The residents discovered that items and currency were missing from their home.
The Lombard Police Department is reminding residents of safety tips to protect themselves against a Ruse Burglary. This type of burglary uses a distraction technique to lure homeowners out of their home. After the homeowner is outside and distracted by one individual, another individual(s) enters the home stealing cash, jewelry, and other items of value. In addition to luring homeowners outside, some offenders will divert homeowners’ attention inside their home.
Residents should ask to see the credential of anyone identifying to be from a utility company or the Village of Lombard needing to enter their home. If the individual is not able to provide credentials, or if you are unsure whether the person is there for a legitimate purpose, do not let the individual(s) into your home, and call 9-1-1 to report the situation to the Lombard Police Department.
Protect yourself by following these reminders:
- Never allow anyone into your home without a prescheduled appointment.
- Require that workers show identification before allowing them into the house or on your property.
- If an individual claims affiliation with the Village or other legitimate utilities, ask for ID and call the Village or company to verify.
- Do not exit your home with an unscheduled visitor, and lock your home if you must accompany a worker outside.
- Keep an extra watch on elderly neighbors and family.
- Educate your relatives and neighbors about ruse burglaries.
- Immediately report suspicious activity by calling 9-1-1. If possible, try to obtain the vehicle license plate, color, make/model, and offender description.