Deception Burglars Strike in Baltimore County: Police

BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD – Authorities are advising citizens to keep a closer eye on their neighbors, and on themselves, as temperatures rise.

With the warmer weather, burglars are out and about, and some may get into a home with the owner standing right there.

Deception burglars pose as individuals from the water department or the local government, seeking to get inside the residence to perform an "inspection."

Deception burglaries have been reported in Cockeysville and Parkville, according to WBAL.

Here are some tips from the Baltimore County Police Department:

• Do not allow uninvited repair workers into your home, especially if they want to fix something that you have not noticed is a problem (such as a leaky roof).
• Do not allow anyone to lead you anywhere in your home or on your property. This can leave other areas of the home unsecure so that a thief can access those areas.
• If someone claims to be at your home for an inspection, ask for picture ID and contact their company before letting them inside.
• Keep doors locked while you are outside the house.
• Call 911 immediately if someone attempts to enter your home or you suspect someone is attempting a deception burglary. Write down a description of the individuals and their vehicle, including a tag number.
• Stay in contact with your neighbors; older residents and those living alone are often targeted.
• Research companies before hiring them to ensure that they are legitimate.
• Report any suspicious persons, vehicles, or activity to police immediately.

Anyone with information about the deception burglaries is asked to contact the Baltimore County Police Department at 410-307-2020.