Avoid Distraction Burglars, Avon Lake Police Warn

AVON LAKE, OH — Avon Lake police are warning residents about an uptick distraction burglaries. The department said on Facebook that residents in nearby Northeast Ohio towns are being increasingly victimized by these types of crimes.

What is a distraction burglary? It typically involves two burglars and a resident. One burglar pretends to be from a home repair service and parks a work truck in the resident's driveway or on the street nearby. That burglar distracts the resident, telling them about the home repair service (or some other service) and then tours the home. When the resident is outside, or otherwise isolated, the second burglar will go into the house and steal valuables, according to Solon police.

Residents should always look for a license plate on the "worker's" truck. The burglars will also not have business cards. If a resident did not call workers to their house, residents should be suspicious.

"The Avon Lake Police Department reminds you to call, should you have any concerns or suspicions when dealing with subjects claiming to be with a utility service company. Any attempts to direct a resident to a specific location within their home could be considered suspicious," police said.