Warning: Police Issue Burglary Scam Alert in Encino

West Valley police are warning residents to be on alert for local ruse burglaries targeting senior citizens.

During the past month, Encino and many other suburban communities have seen an uptick in this scam in which residents are distracted while others sneak into their homes, stealing jewelry, cash and other valuables, according to a news release sent by the department.

The most recent incident occurred Aug. 23, when a thief posed as a real estate representative. The West Valley Division of the Los Angeles Police Department released the following alert:

On Aug. 23, a female Hispanic approached the victim (an elderly female) in her front yard and discussed real estate in the area. This female returned the following day and knocked at the victim's residence door. They had another short discussion and then the female asked the victim for a glass of water. The victim went to retrieve some water for the female and slightly closed her door. Two male suspects pushed the door open and grabbed the victim. They taped her eyes, mouth, arms and legs. The suspect ransacked the victim’s residence, took property and then fled that location. All three suspects were described as Hispanic, 25- to 30-years-old.

Here are some tips to avoid being scammed by a ruse burglar:

• Never let anyone into your home. If someone claims they need assistance tell them you will contact the police to assist them.  If they indicate they are with a utility company call the utility company to verify the work.  If they claim there is a fire or gas leak, Los Angeles Police and Fire Department personnel will respond.
• If you are approached while you are outside, do not let anyone roam your property.  This usually gives them an opportunity to check for open doors while you are being distracted.
• Never allow someone to perform driveway sealing, or home repairs on the spot.  Ask for a business card to check on the reputation of the business and end the conversation. If possible, get a vehicle plate number and inform the Los Angeles Police Department of the activity. Do not deliberate or debate work that needs to be done. Scam artists will often press a sense of urgency.
• Never hesitate to call 911 if you are concerned about someone who is on your property, claiming to be from a utility company, or offering some type of repair work.

According to police, some recent burglaries have been a result of unlocked windows and doors, while others entered the homes by breaking a window or kicking down a door.

One resident reported the following crime to Encino Watch on Aug. 12:

My house was broken into between 11 a.m. and noon on Magnolia Boulevard. Nobody was home except my small dog…Burglars entered throgh the alley into my backyard and broke my bedroom window. Some items are missing.  

Police urge residents to not leave valuables in the master bedroom, and set alarms whenever they leave the house.

Police are also urging residents to avoid leaving anything in your car in plain view.

“Property thefts from vehicles are still a quick and easy crime, and avoidable,” according to the release. “There has been an increase in thefts from vehicles occurring at Balboa Park.”

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