Utility Scam Warning

Police warn residents that there will be an increased amount of utility work in the aftermath of Sandy. Please be aware that all utility workers will carry proper identification. If a worker is unable to provide proper identification, do not allow him or her to enter your residence. Additionally, you may check with your utility companies to determine whether the company has workers in your area before allowing the worker to enter your home.

Detectives from the 2nd District Investigative Section are investigating two incidents involving utility scams that occurred in Chevy Chase and Bethesda.

On October 26, at approximately 11:35 a.m., officers from the 2nd District responded to an address in the 5300 block of Sherrill Avenue for a report of a burglary. The 87-year-old female victim told police that she heard a knock at the door, and she opened it to find a male suspect wearing tan pants and a hard hat. He claimed that he worked for Bethesda Water Company and told her that there was a water main break and that he needed to check the water pressure. At this point, a neighbor arrived to check on the victim. The suspect again stated that he worked for Bethesda Water Company and left the residence. He was last seen getting into a gray Saturn vehicle. At no time did the suspect enter the residence.

On October 26, at approximately 11:50 a.m., officers from the 2nd District responded to an address in the 5200 block of Alta Vista Road for a report of a burglary. The 86-year-old female victim told police that she heard a knock on the door, and she opened it to find a male suspect wearing blue jeans, a reflective vest, and hard hat. He claimed that he worked for the water company and that there was a water main break and that he would have to check the water pressure in the basement. The victim accompanied the suspect to the basement.

While in the basement, the victim heard footsteps upstairs. The victim questioned the suspect about the footsteps, and he quickly left the residence. After the suspect had left, the victim went upstairs and discovered that jewelry was missing from her bedroom.

Detectives are asking that anyone with information about these incidents or the suspect(s) involved to contact the 2nd District Investigative Section at 301-657-0112.

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