Con Men Rob Elderly Couple

Two men in their 40s posing as water company employees gained access to an elderly couple's Academy Street home on Friday and allegedly distracted them while a third actor burglarized the house.

According to South Orange Police Chief James Chelel, the two men rang the bell at about 12:30 p.m. and told the couple—in their 80s—that they were investigating an underground leak that had started in their home. About 30 minutes after they left, the couple realized that numerous collectible coins had been stolen from their second floor bedroom, leading police to believe that a third actor had entered the house while the residents were occupied with the con men.

The two suspects were white men in their 40s. One was described as being 5'8" with a slim build and salt-and-pepper beard, while the other was heavy-set. One was wearing a royal blue jacket and baseball cap, while the other had a dark jacket with a badge reading "Security Officer."

Police believe the incident may be connected to similar crimes in Edison and Hanover, where a newer model gray or white pickup truck was allegedly driven by the thieves.

People with information on the crime should contact Det. Mark Garrett at 973-763-3000, ext. 7789.