Stay Vigilant Of Ruse Burglaries: Bolingbrook Police

BOLINGBROOK, IL — Bolingbrook Police have yet to receive a report for ruse burglary crimes this year, but are asking residents to stay vigilant. Police said there has been a recent uptick in ruse burglaries throughout the Chicago area.

According to police, offenders will often work in pairs posing as utility workers, village employees, or contractors. They are usually men, and will dress in generic work clothes such as safety vests, radios, and lanyards. Offenders will present a story explaining how they need access to your residence to check the water, electrical or other utility. Once inside the home, one member of the burglary crew will distract the homeowner while their partner searches for items to steal.

Bolingbrook Public Works, Illinois American Water, ComEd, and Nicor Gas workers will never ask for cash or credit card payment, police said. All legitimate workers coming to your house should have an appointment and will have an identification card, a marked vehicle and labeled clothing.

If anyone tries to enter your home without permission, lock your doors and dial 911, police said. If you ever question a worker’s authenticity, close your door and call the utility provider to confirm their presence at your home.

• Bolingbrook Public Works - 630-226-8800
• Illinois American Water - 800-422-2782
• ComEd - 800-334-7661
• Nicor Gas - 888-642-6748

Residents should also be aware of fraudulent phone scams. Do not provide personal information, banking information, or credit card information to unsolicited phone calls. These scams are taking many forms which may include threatening calls from the IRS, lottery scams, fake charities, bank fraud, and family members in peril, according to police.