Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/344348
The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office is remind- ing the public about distraction schemes that can be a cover for residential burglaries. Typically, one suspect approaches a resi- dent and requests to be allowed inside or to have access to the back yard, a news release explains. "As that person is distracting the homeowner, another suspect or suspects enter the residence to steal jewelry and cash in just a matter of minutes," the release says. The situation varies, with suspects claiming to have arrived at the home to inspect a water leak, check property lines or to show the resi- dent needed repairs. "The suspects might also identify themselves as county employees or utility workers," the release points out. Homeowners are advised not to open their doors for someone who arrives unannounced — "and never allow the person into your home," the release says. Ask him or her to leave a business card in the door and request the person's employee identification number "so you can contact [the] employer to verify whether [the person is] there on legitimate business," the release adds. "Immediately contact the Sheriff's Office to report any suspicious activity, and if possible, try to obtain a tag number and description of the vehicle the person is driving," the release continues. Notifying law enforcement offi- cers will allow deputies to determine the real reason the person or persons are in the neigh- borhood. Call the non-emergency number, which is 316-1201, the release says. % PUBLIC REMINDED ABOUT DISTRACTION SCHEMES FOR BURGLARIES Search for text in stories by clicking the icon in the menubar and entering a search term. Search the current edition or all editions. QUICK TIP Search Only The Issue You Are Viewing Search All Issues Your search term here Share stories by clicking the icon in the menubar and choosing to share via e-mail, post to Facebook or Twitter, or many other sharing options. QUICK TIP Sarasota News Leader July 11, 2014 Page 89