Watch Out For 'Distraction Burglaries' In Long Valley: Police

LONG VALLEY, NJ — Police are warning Long Valley residents of "distraction burglaries," where one burglar posing as a contractor distracts a homeowner while another canvasses a house in search of valuables.

"They approach your door and tell you that work needs to be done on your property. The subject at your door attempts to lure you away from the doorway to show you the problem," the Washington Township Police Department said on Facebook. "Their accomplice then sneaks into your house, while you are distracted."

The accomplice takes any valuables they can find, and the first actor keeps the resident occupied until the accomplice leaves the house.

These types of burglaries are common among the elderly, the Washington Township Police Department said, and have been reported by police departments in other municipalities.

Legitimate employees of utility companies will have credentials showing who they work for, and police suggest residents ask to see that identification and check to see whether the vehicle they arrived in is from a utility company.

"If at any time you feel uncomfortable or do not believe the person, call the police department immediately," police said. "An officer will respond and will verify the reason why the subject approached your residence."

Anyone legally soliciting in Washington Township will have a permit, police said, and residents should be suspicious if a "random person" approaches their door, saying that they were working in the neighborhood and noticed that work is needed on their house or property.