Ruse burglars often prey on North Suburban communities, including Riverwoods. One occurred recently on Studio Ln off of Riverwoods Rd.
In a typical ruse burglary, a lone suspect knocks on the door and tells the potential victim he is doing work in the area. He typically lures the victim to the backyard to show them where work needs to be done or to point to where he is doing work at a neighbor’s home. While the victim is distracted in the yard or lured to another area of the home, other suspects enter through the front door and steal valuables.
In other versions, the suspect identifies himself as a village or utility worker and distracts victims by showing them false plumbing or electrical problems in or outside their homes. The common theme is that they show up without an appointment and distract victims while their unseen partners burglarize the home.
Never let people into your home or be lured outside by people you don’t know. Keep your doors locked. Dial 911 immediately if anyone tries to talk you into letting them in or showing you something outside. Village employees and contractors carry Village ID’s. Police should be called if you are not certain of their identity.
The groups that commit these crimes almost always prey on the elderly. Please share this article with any seniors you know.
If you have any questions about Ruse Burglaries, contact:
Bruce M. Dayno
Riverwoods Chief of Police
224-284-2332
bdayno@riverwoods.gov
