******SAFETY ALERT****** Hoover Police has recently received several theft reports regarding a male and female scamming/tricking homeowners in the area. The suspects are: White male, mid to late 20’s and a white female in her mid 20’s. The victims advise that the suspects are “dressed nicely” and don’t look suspicious at first glance. The male is wearing khaki pants and a collared shirt or sweater. They are not wearing any type of official looking Utility Uniform or any other business clothing. They are possibly driving a small red sedan. The duo tells the homeowner that they are with the “Water Works”, or “Water Company” (or some other variation of being employed by a utility company). They insist that the neighborhood is having problems with a local water main break and they need to come inside to check the homeowner’s water. They were described as being very polite, but not very professional or knowledgeable regarding the “utility business”. Unfortunately, several victims let them inside without asking for any verification or credentials. Once inside, they go from room to room “checking on the water”. They also walked all around the outside of the house trying to appear “official”. Taken in the thefts were jewelry, cash, and other small but expensive items. Although anyone is vulnerable to this type of scam, they seem to be targeting Senior Citizens. Things to keep in mind about this type of scam/theft. 1. If you aren’t expecting company, you don’t have to open the door. Instead, ask who it is, what they want, and talk with them through the door. If you have a way of looking out to see who it is without opening the door, do so (window, peep hole, etc.). If you aren’t comfortable with whoever is on the other side, call us so we can check them out. 2. Utility Companies and legitimate businesses have CREDENTIALS. They should be easily seen and displayed, but if not, ask to see them. Anyone conducting official business is happy to show you their credentials. If they don’t have any credentials, or won’t show you, close the door immediately and call us. Try to give a good description of the individuals to Dispatchers so we can check them out. 3. If you don’t know who they are, DON’T LET THEM IN YOUR HOUSE FOR ANY REASON. Criminals use many different stories and elaborate scams to gain access inside your house. Remember, if the situation makes you feel uncomfortable, TRUST THAT INSTINCT! They might appear legitimate and seem like nice people. However, you could become their next victim. Don’t let them in. 4. Write down makes, models, and serial numbers for expensive items (including TVs, computers, smart phones, guns, etc.) and keep them in a safe place. If you have expensive jewelry, take digital close-ups and store those photos with the other sensitive information. 5. Remain on guard and be wary of strangers knocking on your door. If they claim to be with a utility company, call that company to verify any work being done in the area. If they make you uncomfortable, or their story just “doesn’t seem right”, CALL US TO INVESTIGATE! Call 911 for Emergencies Call 822-5300 for Non-Emergencies hooverpd/ftpupload/upload/waterworks.pdf
Posted on: Wed, 19 Mar 2014 19:40:58 +0000
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