Police released surveillance photos of the vehicle used by two suspects who have committed numerous ruse burglaries in Cary, Algonquin and Barrington Hills.
The Cary Police Department responded around 4:50 p.m. Tuesday to the 700 block of Bayberry Drive in the Fox Trails subdivision for a call of a residential burglary.
Cary Deputy Police Chief Scott Naydenoff said a pair of offenders convinced the victim they were at the residence to perform tree trimming services the victim never arranged.
One of the suspects distracted the homeowner by having them walk to the backyard to discuss the tree trimming work.
While the homeowner was distracted by the first suspect, a second suspect entered the residence and stole items from the master bedroom, Naydenoff said.
The suspects are believed to be involved in similar incidents in the surrounding area, including one Tuesday evening in Barrington Hills and another on the east side of Algonquin.
“Ruse burglary crews typically target elderly homeowners who they believe to be alone at the time they visit the residence,” Naydenoff said.
The offenders were seen driving away in a silver or gray Chevrolet Blazer style vehicle with stickers on the rear window. The vehicle did not have license plates.
The first suspect was described as a Hispanic male in his 30s, wearing a green vest and a black face covering. He was also holding a two-way radio.
Police did not provide a description of the second suspect. “Please remember, Village of Cary employees and other utility workers will not ask to enter your residence,” Naydenoff said.
“Always ask workers for identification, and do not leave your residence unsecured. Do not engage in dialogue with individuals who claim to have work to perform at your residence that you are not aware of. Do not allow yourself to be drawn away from your residence or otherwise distracted by individuals outside of your home,” he added.
The Cary Police Department is asking residents in the Fox Trails subdivision to check their video doorbell and other home security camera footage for any footage that may be useful in the investigation.
Those who would like to share video footage or information can call the Cary Police Department Investigations Section at 847-639-2341.