Police are looking for help identifying two suspects who underclaimed to be from the water department. They entered the home of an elderly victim under the guise of conducting a water test and stole jewelry and cash.
On Aug. 9, 2019, at 3:30 p.m., two males knocked on the door of a residence in the La Jolla community. The elderly victim answered the door, and the males identified themselves as being from the “water department” and said they were there to conduct a water test at the residence. The victim allowed the two men to enter, and once inside, the suspects distracted the victim by turning on various facets inside and outside the home while they took turns going into different rooms.
The two suspects stole jewelry and cash, and at this time, the exact loss is still being determined. The victim was unharmed during this encounter.
Suspect #1 is described as a dark skin male, approximately 30 years old, 5’6, 160lbs, with a well-manicured beard.
Suspect #2 is described as a dark skin male, approximately 40 years old, 6’0, 210lbs, heavier set, with no facial hair.
These suspects are also wanted for questioning in a similar case which occurred on Aug. 1, 2019, in Bird Rock. In that case, a person matching the description of suspect #1 used the same ruse and stole jewelry from another elderly victim.
Anyone with information is asked to call the SDPD’s Elder Abuse Unit at (619) 446-1070 or the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at (888) 580-8477.
The San Diego Police Department would like to remind community members that this tactic is a common ruse for criminals. Be cautious when unknown persons are asking to come into your home under the pretense they work for city departments, utility companies or construction companies. Always ask for picture identification and deny access to your home if you cannot confirm they are there for a legitimate reason.
City of San Diego Public Utilities Department workers will never go into a residence unless an appointment has been made by the resident. Workers will always arrive in a city vehicle marked with the City of San Diego logo. If a City of San Diego resident is approached by someone who identifies themselves as being from the water department, the resident can always call the Public Utilities Department directly at 619-515-3525. The operator can verify the employment status of any employee and can also verify if work is scheduled to be completed.
