‘Gypsy’ Activity on the Rise in Area, Whitemarsh Police Warn

Pennsylvania and surrounding areas have recently had an influx of transient, or ‘gypsy,’ activity, according to an alert from the Whitemarsh Police Department on the township website.

“Transients are roaming thieves who prey on the uninformed and unsuspecting residents, particularly (but not always exclusively) the elderly,” the alert, posted on March 21, warns. “While their crimes vary, often times they portray themselves as driveway sealant or asphalt contractors or home roof repairmen or handymen.”

According to police, these individuals approach residents, trying to make a deal for work using numerous different ploys.

“Do not fall for the sales pitch, if it sounds too good to be true it normally is,” the Whitemarsh Police Department says. “If you did not call a contractor to do work, do not engage the individual.  If you think you have been scammed by a transient criminal or you believe that one of them has tried to scam you, contact the police immediately with any information regarding the Person(s), type of activity and a description of the vehicle(s) involved.”