Community Corner
Police Warn Residents of Rise in Distraction Burglaries
Authorities want residents, especially the elderly, to remain vigilant as these crimes increase throughout Arcadia and the San Gabriel Valley.
want residents to be mindful of people in their neighborhood as reports of distraction burglaries continue to increase throughout the area.
In the past two years, authorities have noticed these kinds of burglaries are being committed more frequently, said Sgt. Tom Le Veque of the Arcadia Police in a statement released last week. These types of burglaries are not unique to Arcadia, Le Veque said, and are becoming more widespread.
Distraction burglaries are being committed primarily during daylight hours, and the suspects target older residents. Suspects will approach the victims at their home, either in their yards or at the door, and state they work for any number of agencies, including city departments.
The suspects will ask for entry into the home or backyard and distract the victim; sometimes a secondary suspect will distract while the primary suspect will steal items of value, Le Veque said.
, a resident in the 100 block of West Camino Real Avenue reportedly fell victim to a distraction burglary and allegedly had $20,000 in jewelry stolen. , in the 100 block of South Second Avenue, a male suspect distracted the female victim about construction for a gate. When the victim went back in her residence a short time later, she allegedly found her residence ransacked.
"Anytime someone approaches you, or comes to your residence asking to come in or perform work, obtain identification and confirm their identity," Le Veque said in a statement.
Le Veque added that legitimate workers should be wearing some sort of uniform, carry identification and be driving a clearly marked vehicle. Police also recommend residents to never let anyone requesting access to your home unless you have made a service call and to call 911 if the suspicious person, or persons, are uncooperative.
Police ask that residents inform their older friends, neighbors, or relatives of the need to increase their awareness of this type of crime.
Anyone with information on these crimes is asked to call the Arcadia Police Department at (626)574-5156. You can also submit crime tips and information via text, phone, or web to LA Regional Crime Stoppers, 800-222-TIPS (8477).