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Fake Landscaper “Distraction Burglaries” Spread
| Latest NewsA few weeks ago, we warned of a burglary ring on Long Island whose modus operandi is to pose as landscapers. They ring a residential doorbell, chat up the homeowner and then get him or her to show off the backyard, etc. With the homeowner distracted and the front door open, accomplices enter the premises and steal what they can find.
Now, police in Coral Gables, Florida, warn that similar “distraction burglaries” are happening in their community. They believe that the perpetrators may have come to Florida from up north, to take advantage of the warmer weather.
In a recent case, thieves stole over $200,000 in money and jewelry from a local homeowner after ringing her doorbell, engaging in conversation, and having her show them shrubs in the backyard. There, they flirted with the woman and talked about the landscaping work to be done. Meanwhile, an accomplice was going through her house.
Coral Gables police recently staged a mock “distraction burglary” for the media in an effort to raise awareness among local residents.
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