Police Urge Residents to Warn Seniors of Burglary Ruse

In response to a burglary ruse that preys on senior citizens, Buffalo Grove police are asking residents to warn elderly residents of predators. Many seniors don’t have computers, so they do not see online police reports, and may be unaware of the ruse.

The most recent ruse occurred on May 10 on the 600 block of Checker Drive. According to the police blotter, an 86-year-old resident and her husband were sitting on a bench in front of their home when a white, full-sized, panel van pulled up to the end of the driveway. A male Hispanic got out of the van and told the resident that he is a fence installer and was going to build a fence at the residence behind the resident’s house.

The man asked both residents to accompany him to the back of the house to show him their lot line. While in the backyard, the man spoke with someone on his cell phone in Spanish.

When the residents returned to their home, they found that an extensive silver coin collection was missing from the den and two gold rings were missing from the bedroom for a total value of $60,000.

Buffalo Grove police remind residents that a true contractor would get information about the lot line from the homeowner's plat of survey.

Police are asking residents to speak with their senior relatives, neighbors and friends.  Let them know not to allow anyone into their home, yard, or garage.  Don't let anyone lure them out of the house for any reason.

Police advise that if someone comes to the door that does not have an appointment, don't open the door and call 911 immediately.  Officers will be pleased to check on any individual and their purpose.

Those with questions or comments about the incident are directed to call the Buffalo Grove Police Department at 847-459-2560.