Suburban village issues new warning about ‘ruse burglaries’

Suburban officials are once again reminding residents of the dangers of so-called “ruse burglaries,” where homeowners are distracted while their homes are robbed.

Ruse burglaries occur when a group of individuals approaches a home under the guise of offering a service, such as a free estimate, or to read a utility meter. While one person distracts the homeowner, one or more other individuals enter the home and steal valuables before fleeing the premises.

While there haven’t been any recent reports of such burglaries in the village of Northfield, officials there are still warning residents to be on the lookout for the potential danger of ruse burglaries.

Officials offered the following tips:

-Require workers to show ID before allowing them onto your property.

-If you choose to speak with a solicitor, never leave your front door unattended or unlocked.

-If someone comes to the house asking for help, tell them you will call the police to assist them.

-Warn elderly neighbors and family.

-Immediately report any suspicious activity by calling 911.

Ruse burglaries have been reported in numerous communities around the Chicago area in recent months, with the most recent case occurring in Elk Grove Village. There, authorities warned of a “ruse burglary crew” where one individual would distract a homeowner while the other ransacked their residence.

Officials there urged residents to use caution when approached by solicitors offering to:

-Inquire about water supply or water pressure

-“Warn” homeowners of outdoor “electrical problems.”

-Ask questions about property lines.

-Offer to repair gutters, fences, or to trim trees.

-Offer to repair driveways.

Ruse burglaries were also reported in Will County earlier this year, and there have been multiple incidents in Chicago as well, according to officials.

Illinois State Police offered more tips to combat and guard against ruse burglaries here.