Two burglary suspects impersonated water-service workers to gain entry to multiple Los Altos homes this week, according to a release from the Los Altos Police Department.
At 1 p.m. July 20 at the 700 block of Jordan Avenue, the suspects knocked on a resident’s front door and told him the water supply to his home had possibly been contaminated by construction in the neighborhood.
The resident allowed the suspects into his home to inspect the faucets, and after running the water in several sinks, the suspects left – taking with them some of the resident’s belongings.
Earlier that day at 11 a.m., a resident reported to police a similar event on the 1000 block of Los Altos Avenue. A purported water utility worker asked to enter the home, and when the resident allowed him inside, he turned on several faucets but left without stealing any items.
Police obtained images of the suspects from video surveillance in the area. Based on the descriptions provided by both residents, police believe the same individuals are responsible for both incidents.
“Please use caution when allowing a utility worker access to your home,” Sgt. Mark Bautista said. “Legitimate utility employees will rarely arrive unexpectedly. Even then, they will carry credentials identifying them as employees of the utility company.”
He advised residents to request workers’ credentials and a work order. If residents have any lingering suspicion, he recommended not allowing them inside and immediately contacting the corresponding utility company to verify the workers’ business.
Los Altos police further remind residents to be vigilant in reporting suspicious activity in their neighborhoods. This includes aggressive solicitors, individuals exhibiting behavior consistent with “casing” the neighborhood and suspicious vehicles not known to the neighborhood. When calling, reporting residents should articulate specific observations that would substantiate their suspicions.
Police also urge residents to secure their homes. Some burglary-prevention measures include installing burglar alarms, locking perimeter gates and access points, using exterior motion lights and setting up video surveillance systems. Residents interested in receiving free home security inspections may contact Community Service Officer Josh Cottrell at 947-2647.
Anyone with information related to this case or other suspicious activity are asked to call the Los Altos Police Department at 947-2770.
