Lake County sheriff warns of ruse burglaries

Lake County sheriff's police are warning residents about a rise in ruse burglaries in the area.

A ruse burglary involves using distraction techniques to lure homeowners outside of their home. After the homeowner is outside and distracted by one individual, another individual enters the home to steal cash, jewelry and other items of value.

There are also instances when offenders will remain inside with homeowners, distracting them inside their residence, while other individuals will enter and steal valuables. Seniors are frequently the intended target of these crimes.

Sheriff's police say residents should never allow anyone inside your home without a prescheduled appointment; ask for identification if a person claims affiliation with your local government; do not exit your home with an unscheduled visitor; and keep an extra watch on elderly neighbors and family members, reminding them of these types of criminal behaviors.

"When these con artists strike, we often see the vulnerable lose valuable keepsakes that have tremendous sentimental value," Sheriff John D. Idleburg said.