Village officials are warning residents in Deer Park about an increase in burglaries, typically targeting senior citizens, involving suspects who enter homes through a ruse.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office recently alerted the Village of Deer Park that ruse entry burglaries are on the rise.
Ruse burglaries occur when a suspect attempts to lure the homeowner outside, either to the rear of the residence or to the basement, to discuss an issue with their home or neighbor’s home.
After the homeowner is distracted, a second or several suspects will enter the home to commit the burglary.
The offenders tend to target homes owned by senior citizens. “However, anyone can be a target,” the village said.
Village officials said the sheriff’s office also reported that scams for seal-coating asphalt driveways have been especially concerning recently.
The scammers spray motor oil or other harmful chemicals on driveways, which look good for about a day and then wash away.
Village officials said 90% of seal coating companies that come to residents’ doors looking for jobs are scammers and possibly part of ruse burglary rings.
Ruse burglary offenders use many storylines. Some ask to check water supply or pressure, offer to repair gutters and fences or perform tree trimming, advise there is an electrical problem in the area, ask about homes for sale in the neighborhood, pose as a utility worker or village employee, and offer unsolicited driveway repair.
Residents are recommended to check the credentials of anyone claiming to be a utility worker or village employee, be wary of workers without an official vehicle, keep an extra watch on elderly neighbors, be observant of neighbors’ homes for suspicious activity and keep doors and windows locked at all times.
“Be aware of anyone coming to your door or approaching you for unsolicited business. Request identification from anyone who approaches and tell them you will verify any work conducted in the area with the police,” village officials said.
Jewelry, cash and other valuables should be kept in a safe place. Strangers should never be allowed into residents’ homes or allow residents to get distracted while leaving their front door unlocked.