Crime & Safety

Police Warning Seniors Residents of Burglaries

Lake County Sheriff's Office says there has been an uptick in burglars pretending to check on homes of seniors and then stealing items from the home.

Lake County Sheriff’s Office is warning homeowners of “ruse” burglaries. Local municipalities and county sheriff’s offices have received an increase in these types of crimes in the past few months, according to a press release. 

Victims are typically targeted because of their advanced age and the probability they are living alone. The offenders usually travel in pairs, with one offender distracting the homeowner while the second offender enters the home to search for and steal cash, jewelry and other items.  There are many story lines offenders will use, including:

  • Inquiries about the homeowner’s water supply or pressure
  • Informing the homeowner there is an electrical problem
  • Offers to repair gutters/fences or tree trimming and landscaping
  • Blacktop/driveway repair
  • False statements about problems at the neighbor’s house
  • Inquiries about homes for sale in the neighborhood

The burglaries usually occur during the late morning and afternoon hours, prior to 5 p.m.   

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Police are reminding residents that nobody should be allowed inside your home unless they are personally known to you or unless it is a scheduled appointment. 

If a solicitor comes to your residence, prior to answering the door, attempt to locate and remember what kind of vehicle they are driving (make, model, color, type). Further, make a mental note of their attire and physical characteristics. If you do choose to speak with a solicitor or utility worker, never leave your front door unlocked or unattended.

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This type of “ruse” or distraction burglary is becoming more prevalent.  Homeowners must always be wary of offers that sound too good to be true and cautious of strangers who attempt to charm you into buying something. 

If you feel you have been the victim of a ruse burglary or if you have seen suspicious vehicles and/or subjects approaching elderly neighbors, please call the Lake County Sheriff’s Office at 847/549-5200 to report these incidents or 911 if the offense is in progress at the time. Please be ready to provide a vehicle description and a license plate number, if possible. 

Information provided by Lake County Sheriff's Office.


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