New Jersey

Fake Utility Workers Burglarize Elderly NJ Homeowners: Police

Police are looking for a group of burglars they say targeted elderly homeowners in 11 New Jersey towns.

The crew allegedly burglarized elderly people in 13 homes across 11 different towns in Bergen County. Authorities say they tricked homeowners into letting them in by showing utility company IDs at the door.

“In some cases they’ve even sent letters ahead of time to victims – fake letters from PSE&G saying that they’ll be in the victim’s area,” the Bergen County Prosecutor said.

The victims have been around 80 to 90 years old, and one woman from East Rutherford had almost $100,000 in cash stolen. Paramus resident Marina Prakhin knew a neighbor who was targeted as well.

“They were trying to take him out of the house, but they didn’t know his wife was in the house,” she said. “Yeah it was a little bit of a scary situation. I’m trying not to open my window or doors to anyone.”

Police have warned residents to be careful before letting anyone enter their homes.

“Don’t let them in, keep them outside, ask for ID, and call the utility company,” the prosecutor said.

Surveillance video released by police Wednesday shows one of the men involved in the burglaries.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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