Deception Burglars Hit Perry Hall: Police

PERRY HALL, MD — Recently the Baltimore County Police Department issued an alert about so-called deception burglaries. At least two have been reported in the past week near Perry Hall.

In these crimes, burglars pose as utility workers, roofers and tree trimmers to distract residents so they can steal items from the homes.

"The deceptive burglars claim there’s a problem with a utility inside the victim's home, and they need to inspect it," police said. "As one criminal attempts to distract the homeowner, another grabs cash, jewelry, even electronics from inside the home."

Two Perry Hall area residents were the targets of deception burglars, according to authorities.

"Most recently, the criminals have worn bogus ID badges when they’ve approached unsuspecting homeowners," the Baltimore County Police Department said in a statement.

Someone distracted a homeowner in the 9600 block of Dundawan Road around 10 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 19, police reported. While the homeowner was occupied with the suspect, another person came inside the home and stole jewelry, officials said.

In another case, police said the burglar deceived a homeowner in the 300 block of Sipple Avenue to get inside around 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 17. While the resident was distracted, the suspect searched his belongings. Police said nothing was stolen.

The suspects in the recent string of deception burglaries in Baltimore County have been driving a gray full-sized truck, according to police.

"These burglars often travel from one county to the next looking for older adults they can target," police said, stating the average victim is 81 years old.

"At this point, police are warning everyone to remain vigilant," police said.

Here are tips for Baltimore County residents to avoid becoming victims of deception burglaries:

• Don’t open the door if you are unsure why a person is there. You are not obligated.
• Call a neighbor or friend to come check the perimeter of your home before opening the door.
• Lock the door behind you if you go outside your home, and ensure all entries are also locked, including doors, windows and the garage.