Following a reported “distraction burglary” that took place on Arthur Street on last week, the Greenwich Police Department and the Aquarion Water Company are advising residents to be on the lookout for scammers who try to pass themselves off as utility workers.
According to Lt. Kraig Gray, a spokesman for GPD, a person posing as a water company representative was allowed access into a residence on Arthur Street at around noon last Thursday. The scammers produced some sort of identification and said they were checking the water pressure of the woman’s water meter.
That’s when an “additional three suspects” were seen in her house.
The four men left without causing harm or taking anything, but not before the woman was frightened and threatened to call the police. They were described as dark complexioned or olive-skinned men wearing gray pants, possibly with matching tops and bottoms.
The GPD asks that anyone witnessing suspicious activity in their neighborhood to contact them at 203-622-8000.
In response to recent utility imposters gaining access to homes, Aquarion Water Co. is advising residents and business owners to refuse entrance into their home or business unless they have a scheduled appointment and see a company-issued photo ID.
“Aquarion Water Company employees follow strict protocols when entering customers’ homes and businesses, which include showing the customer an Aquarion photo ID,” said Charles V. Firlotte, Aquarion President and CEO. “We also encourage any customer who is unsure or has concerns, to call our Customer Service Department.”
Indoor utility work will only be completed by scheduling an appointment directly with the water company; if a worker cannot produce identification, customers shouldn’t allow him entrance into their home or business, and should immediately contact the police.
Distraction burglaries often involve a main suspect, often a phony utility worker, to distract the homeowner while accomplices steal valuables inside the house. Asking to see proper credentials and identification is not only reassuring, but it may save residents money if scammers come knocking.
Aquarion Water Co. is the public water supply company for more than 625,000 people in 51 cities and towns throughout Connecticut, as well as serving customers in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
Anyone who has further questions or would like to confirm a scheduled appointment may contact Aquarion Customer Service at 203-445-7310.