Men pretending to work for water company distract, rob 95-year-old Lake Mary woman, deputies say

Do you know these scammers?

Seminole Co. (August 10, 2018) - Investigators are seeking the public’s help to identify two suspects posing as water company employees to gain entry to a 95-year-old victim’s home and steal valuables. The investigation began on August 9th, when deputies were called to the victim’s home on Banana Lake Drive. Thursday afternoon she reported that a man came to her door claiming to be with an unnamed water company needing to do work in her home. Once inside the suspect engaged the victim in conversation about a fifty-dollar refund she would receive. He then produced a $100 bill and asked if the victim had change. While the victim was distracted, another suspect entered the victim’s home without her knowledge and stole several items of jewelry. Deputies are investigating whether this case is linked to at least one other incident in the area. The Sheriff’s Office reminds residents to follow these safety tips to avoid becoming a burglary victim: Call 911 immediately to report suspicious activity, persons, or vehicles. Always lock doors, windows and sliding glass doors, even when you are home. If you are at home and the doorbell rings, go to the door to investigate who is there and let them know that a person is inside. If you are confronted by someone claiming to be a worker, contractor, or any professional person, ask for identification and a business card. Research the phone number of the company they claim to be with and call for verification. Anyone with information on this crime or the identity of the suspects is asked to call the Seminole County Sheriff's Office at 407-665-1481 or Crimeline at (800) 423-TIPS (8477). You can remain anonymous and you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

Posted by Seminole County Sheriff's Office on Friday, August 10, 2018