Police are warning Northwest Side residents of a recent surge in “ruse burglaries” in the Jefferson Park and Albany Park communities.
In each of the four historical occurrences, elderly homeowners were robbed of cash or jewelry by guys posing as utility technicians.
According to authorities, three guys could enter four homes by claiming to be from an electric company and telling elderly residents they had to inspect the wiring in their house or do other electric household repairs.
While one man distracts the person, two other men enter the residence and seize cash and jewelry, officials stated in a community advisory.
One male was described by witnesses as roughly 6 feet 1 inch tall. The second man was claimed to have a mask, yellow vest, and radio.
Witnesses say he weighed roughly 200 to 240 pounds and was about 5 feet 10 inches tall. The third person was characterized simply as male.
Authorities also alerted residents the trio may be driving a green mid-sized SUV. So far, all occurrences have taken place in the afternoon.
Police documented a Sept. 5 robbery in the 3800 block of West Foster Avenue, a Sept. 18 robbery in the 2800 block of West Eastwood Avenue, a Sept. 22 robbery in the 5000 block of North Neenah Avenue, and a Sept. 23 robbery in the 4900 block of West Strong Street.
Authorities urged locals should remain careful if they live alone and report any “strange people loitering” in their area.
Authorities say that anyone with information should contact the Area Five Bureau of Detectives at 312-746-7394.
Source: Patch
