ALLENTOWN – Municipal officials are warning residents to be alert to the possibility of what is being referred to as a distraction robbery.
Allentown officials said that on Aug. 9 in Upper Freehold Township, another distraction robbery occurred. In that incident, an individual posed as an employee from an electric company and asked to view a resident’s electrical box.
The resident went to the basement of the home to show the electrical box to the man and another person entered the home and stole valuables. The resident was not harmed, but some items were stolen.
According to municipal officials, the New Jersey State Police have said elderly individuals are often targeted in distraction robberies. Police have released a sketch of the man who posed as the electric company employee in Upper Freehold. Anyone with information about the suspect is asked to call the Hamilton Township barracks of the state police at 609-584-5000, ext. 5287.
Allentown officials suggested that when someone knocks on the door, a resident should stop and think about whether they are expecting anyone. If an individual is claiming to be from a company, ask why they have come to the home.
Always ask the individual for identification or any associated paperwork. If there is any doubt, call the company the individual says he is from. Do not call any number given by the individual; locate the company’s number from another source, such as a phone book.
Residents should ensure the back door of their home is closed when answering the front door. Officials said individuals who are intent on gaining access to a home may be working in pairs and said while one person distracts the resident at the front door, the second person may be trying to enter the home through the back door.
Officials suggest that residents should not keep large sums of money in the house. Keep valuables and items of sentimental value where they are not easily accessible. Keep documents containing personal details out of sight. Keep keys in a safe place and not on display.
Residents should call police if an individual tries to enter a home without permission or if they notice valuables or money have gone missing shortly after someone has visited, Allentown officials said in a notification to the community.
