Police Warn Of Ruse Burglaries In Lemont

LEMONT, IL — After a recent attempted ruse burglary in Lemont, police are reminding residents to be wary. Police said they recently received a report of an attempted ruse burglary in a neighborhood near downtown Lemont. In this incident, the offenders claimed to be replacing power poles in the area.

Police said if you have scheduled an appointment with a contractor, it's a good idea to ask for a business card or company ID, and to check to see if the person's vehicle or uniform has the company's logo on it. Utility workers also have service vehicles displaying the company logo.

According to police, ruse burglaries usually take place in the spring or summer and target elderly people who live alone. These 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 valuable items. The typical ruse burglary takes place on weekdays during the daylight hours.

Police said these offenders use many story lines, 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.

If a solicitor comes to your residence, prior to answering the door, you should attempt to locate and remember what kind of vehicle he or she is driving (make, model, color, type). Police said to make a mental note of the person's attire and physical characteristics.

If someone you don't know knocks on your door and asks you to step out of your home for any reason, either lock all doors before exiting and take your key with you, or don't comply. If ever in doubt, or if the person is persistent in entering your home, close and lock your door and call 911 immediately.

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