Full Notification

On April 29, 2010 an elder distraction burglary occurred in the 13100 block of Hart Street. The suspect, described as a Hispanic male distracted the elderly resident by convincing him he was trimming the neighbor's trees and needed to get into the victim's backyard. When the victim accompanied the suspect into the backyard, someone entered the victim's home and stole his property.

This is not so uncommon in the San Fernando Valley. Thieves target the elderly who they view as persons they can easily manipulate. They will use a ruse such as this one, or they are looking for a lost pet, or they need to use the phone. When they are able to distract the resident, usually a second or third suspect will enter the home and steal money and jewelry.

Be careful not to allow someone you do not know access into your home. Keep an eye out for your neighbors, especially the elderly. Share with them this information so they are aware of this scam.

Anyone with information regarding this type of crime is asked to call LAPD’s Commercial Crimes Division, Elder Distraction Unit at 213-486-6940. During non-business hours or on weekends calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.