Crime & Safety

River Forest Police Warn of Ruse Burglary Incident

A resident was a victim of a ruse burglary Tuesday; the police share advice on how to handle possibly similar situations.

River Forest police are searching for a man who committed a ruse burglary Tuesday evening.

According to a police department news release, a man went to a home in the 800 block of Franklin wearing a tool belt and convinced the resident he was fixing an electrical problem. 

Once he was inside, a theft occurred. The man is described as between 5-foot-10 and 6 feet with a heavy build, olive complexion and dark hair. 

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Police Chief Gregory Weiss said these type of burglaries often happen in the same manner: they pretend to be utility workers who need to enter the house, or contractors who convince the resident to leave their house while a partner enters. 

"They typically target elderly residents as they tend to be easily distracted," Weiss said in the release. "We believe they choose their target while driving around the area and spotting an elderly resident enter their home or while out in their yard."

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Police are aware of several families who send their members to commit these crimes, Weiss said But it's hard to apprehend them because delayed reports and limited information are received. 

Weiss urges residents to tell people to wait outside while you call the police to verify their story.

"If they wait around, they may be legitimate," he said. "If they leave, you may have diverted a crime. Please try to ascertain the type of vehicle they are driving and if possible a license plate number."

Call River Forest detectives at 708-366-7125 if you have experienced a similar incident. You can also sign up for crime tips and emergency alerts here


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