Police: Beware of Ruse Burglars

Elderly residents of Oak Forest and surrounding suburbs are being targeted by a team or teams of burglars in the area, and want residents to be vigilant.

In the , one man poses as a utility worker, service provider or new neighbor to distract the homeowner while another man ransacks the home. Police issued a citywide emergency phone call Thursday to warn residents and to urge them to alert elderly friends and neighbors, said Police Chief Greg Anderson.

"We wanted to get the word out as best as possible," Anderson said. 

The most recent instances took place in the Gingerwood subdivision and a home on Arroyo Drive. Before they were robbed of $15,000, the. The couple discovered the money missing after he left.

Descriptions of the men vary from dark-skinned white males to Hispanic males. Vehicles possibly tied to the crimes are reported as stationwagons or vans, "with junk or debris in the back."

"If you spot a vehicle matching the description, call the police immediately," Anderson said.

This appears to be a Chicagowide phenomenon, Anderson said. Oak Forest police are working with nearby departments to help track the occurrences.

Tips at Protecting your Home:

• Don't let them in. If a suspicious solicitor approaches your home, or rings your doorbell, tell them they are not welcome. Do not follow them outside.
• Call 911. If you can, stall the solicitor and call police immediately. If the person leaves before police arrive, try to write down any characteristics or features that might help police.
• Be a tipster. If you spot a vehicle that matches the description, write down the license plate number and call police.

Police issued similar warnings in , and a .

In an emergency, call 9-1-1. Otherwise, call the non-emergency number at (708)687-1376.