Full Notification

The Arcadia Police Department has experienced an increase in reports of residential distraction burglaries in recent weeks. The suspects in these incidents are commonly referred to by the victims as “Gypsy” type individuals, or "Travelers". The method of distraction involves the suspects portraying themselves as officials with various government agencies or sub-contractors through government agencies. Such vocations represented are: Department of Water & Power employees, city public works, construction employees, and tree trimmers.

These crimes occur during day time hours and focus on elderly victims. Once the suspect gains the victim’s trust and confidence, the suspect is allowed inside and occupies the victim. A second suspect then enters the residence and commits the theft. The victim is unaware their valuables have been stolen and ultimately both suspects leave the residence minutes apart.

The Arcadia Police Department is reminding residents to be aware of these crimes of trickery and encourage them to never allow anyone inside of their homes without positively verifying the individual’s identity and employer.

If you encounter an incident such as the one described, please immediately call the Arcadia Police at 626-574-5123 or dial 911. If you have information on these crimes or suspects, please call Arcadia Police Detectives at 626-574-5160. You can also submit crime tips and information via text, phone, or web to LA Regional Crime Stoppers, 800-222-TIPS (8477), http://lacrimestoppers.org/.

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