Ruse Burglaries

ScamsResidents of Elmhurst and surrounding communities periodically fall victim to ruses where perpetrators gain unlawful entry to their homes. In most cases, no force is used, but offenders often target elderly residents, who may be easily confused or persuaded to allow the offender(s) inside. Unfortunately, many residents then feel embarrassed about falling victim to a scam and fail to report it to the police.
About the OffendersIn this type of scam, offenders are usually male subjects of various ages who operate in groups of 2-4. They are often incorrectly described as Hispanic when they are commonly associated with a European criminal “gypsy” culture. They are not usually dressed in utility worker uniforms and tend to arrive in newer-model SUVs, vans or pickup trucks that may have temporary license plates and/or no front plate. The subjects pose as new neighbors, utility workers, repairmen or contractors, and they target elderly residents from either the appearance of the residence or by observing the occupants in the yard and/or house.
Scam MethodsOne offender will usually approach the victim quickly and engage them in "fast talk" conversation while offering home repair work.  Or, they simply enter the home and walk past the resident, stating that they need to check on the electrical or plumbing system, or some other reported problem. They keep the victim engaged and do not allow him/her to use the phone or walk away from them. Another method used is to ask the victim to come outside to check trees or power lines at the rear of the property; other offenders then enter the house and search for valuables.

These con artists are professional thieves who are very good at locating even hidden valuables. They are in and out of the house quickly, and, by the time the resident realizes what is happening, it’s too late.

Other common scams include:

  • Young adults calling "Grandma" or "Grandpa" to ask for help because they’ve been arrested out of the country and need bond money to be wired.  These scams are very clever because, upon hearing a voice saying, “Grandma, it’s me . . . I need help,” the grandparent usually responds with the name of their grandchild, saying something like, “Johnny, what happened?”  The offender is then armed with the name of his/her “character” and, if Grandpa or Grandma starts to have doubts, the information can be used to convince them--“Grandma, it’s Johnny, remember?  Help me, I need money right away.”
  • Phone calls that are supposedly from the IRS saying you owe money and will be arrested if you don’t wire money or provide a credit card or banking information immediately. THE IRS WILL NOT CONTACT YOU BY TELEPHONE OR EMAIL!  If the IRS needs to reach you, they will do so through the U.S. Mail, and you will never have to provide immediate funds without time for explanation.
Tips for Preventing a ScamResidents are reminded to:
  • Always lock all doors, even when out in your yard.
  • Do not open the door for someone you don’t know or haven’t called for service. Don't be too trusting; it can make you a victim.
  • Call 9-1-1 if someone you don’t know is at your door. This is not an inconvenience to the police. We will gladly come to check on things.
  • Do maintain the exterior of your home. An outdated appearance or the need for even minor repairs can be an indicator to the con artist of a potential victim.
  • If you see a suspicious vehicle that appears to be surveying the area, contact 9-1-1.
  • Carry a cell phone at all times, especially when outside of your residence.
  • Have a network of friends or neighbors who look out for you.
  • Always report suspected criminal activity to the police. You are not alone as a victim.
Family members or relatives of elderly residents should share this safety information with their loved ones. Residents are encouraged to be attentive for activity placing their elderly neighbors at risk.

The Elmhurst Police Department also hosts monthly meetings of the Seniors and Law Enforcement Together (SALT) group, which has presentations and discussions on this type of topic. For more information, contact the Police Department at (630) 530-3050.