Full Notification

We have seen an increase in Distraction Burglaries. The suspects usually target the elderly; however they have been known to select victims who attend high profile venues. Additionally, they target high end homes that are for sale, often attempting to distract the Relator, personal assistants or other representative for the home owner. This often includes one or more suspects engaging the Relator or representative while another suspect removes small high value items from the home. If you are a Relator, don’t allow perspective buyers to separate during a tour of the home. Other methods of distraction are tree trimming, utility checks, pregnant woman needing assistance with her vehicle, lottery tickets, wiring money for bail for a loved one out of state or that they lost their dog. Look for company logos on shirts or vehicles and ask for their identification. These suspects are organized, intelligent and very articulate. They are able to “Dress the part” in order to fit into their target environment. If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. If you feel that you are a victim of this type of crime, please call the police. If you have any questions please call West Valley Burglary Detectives at 818-374-7730