News Flash

On March 21^st, 2017, at approximately 2:00 p.m., an elderly Dubuque resident was the victim of a scam related burglary. The resident reported a Hispanic male came to her door and indicated he was in the area doing concrete work/repairs. He further stated he noticed her back patio had a crack in the concrete. While the resident was distracted, discussing the repair and cost, a second suspect burglarized her home, and stole an undisclosed amount of cash. Scam related burglaries of this nature are not new to the area and typically arise during springtime.

In some cases, the suspects may attempt contact at the front door, looking to execute their scam, but then do a traditional burglary when they find the residence unoccupied.

 

Residents are encouraged to be alert for similar suspicious activity in their neighborhoods and take precautions.

If a person claims to be present for unsolicited services, do not grant him/her access to your residence and adamantly decline their offer.

Require credentials or other positive identification from anyone claiming to be associated with formal property assessment or offering other services. If there’s any doubt, call the subject’s company to verify his identity or contact local authorities.

Make sure all valuables are out of site and secure at all times. Always lock all doors and windows.

Call the police immediately to report suspicious activity or people.    

SENIOR CITIZENS ARE OFTEN THE TARGETS OF THESE AND OTHER SCAMS: Scammers have found seniors to be preferable targets as they believe seniors may have assets or valuables, may be isolated or live alone, may be trusting of others, may suffer from mental illness or cognitive decline, and may be hesitant to report crimes due to embarrassment or fear that reporting a crime might result in family and friends questioning their ability to live independently. Citizens are encouraged to share this information with elderly family and friends and check on them regularly.