PSP Warns Residents of Distraction Burglaries

As posted on the Perkiomen and Skippack Township websites, Pennsylvania State Police sent a message to municipalities, warning residents of distraction burglaries and thefts occurring throughout Pennsylvania.

According to the notice, sent from Lt. David C. Buckley, acting commanding officer of the Pennsylvania State Police - Troop K, suspects are posing as legitimate workers and targeting elderly residents.

Suspects commonly impersonate employees of utility companies, government businesses, or social services.  In some instances, women and children accompany male suspects as part of the diversion.

While one suspect keeps residents distracted under the ruse of official business, an unseen suspect then enters the home to remove currency and jewelry.

According to police, suspects sometimes offer a rebate by giving the victim a $100 bill and requesting change - which is an attempt to learn if currency is kept in the house.  The suspect posing as a worker will keep the victim busy - turning light switches on and off, knocking on water pipes, showing damage, determining property lines, etc. While the victim is distracted, the other suspect then and steals valuables.
 
Police ask that if someone shows up to your door unannounced claiming to be a utility or government worker, call the company and ask if someone is scheduled to visit your home - or dial 9-1-1 and explain the situation to the officer.

Distraction burglaries and thefts are on the rise throughout the country.  has reported some ways to keep homes safe from distraction burglaries and thefts.