WHEATON, IL — Police say $3,000 in jewelry was stolen from a home during a ruse burglary in Wheaton on Saturday.

Two men came to a home in the 300 block of West Union Avenue under the guise of performing mold removal, police say. The residents told police the men pulled up to their home in an older model dark blue or black pickup truck around 3 p.m. One man got out of the truck and told a resident he was there for a scheduled mold removal.

Police say the resident let the man into their home to fill a bucket with water. The man then went to the back of the home and appeared to be inspecting masonry. He then told the resident he would be back the next day and he and the other man drove off.

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After the men left, the residents noticed their bedroom had been rifled through and that jewelry had been stolen. The total loss was estimated at around $3,000.

In the wake of the incident, Wheaton police are urging residents to remain vigilant for ruse burglaries. They note that City of Wheaton employees and utility workers will have official identification from their employers.

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City officials also recommend residents:

  • Ask workers for identification before letting them into your home or onto your property.
  • Be aware that burglars may wear reflective vests and carry clipboards in an attempt to look legitimate.
  • When in doubt, call the listed employer or the City of Wheaton to confirm the appointment.
  • Be wary of workers who say they are offering discounts in the area.
  • If you go outside with someone claiming to be a worker, lock your home while you are outside.
  • If you are suspicious of a person or who need help with verification can call 911 for assistance.

Residents who have information about this ruse burglary are urged to contact the Wheaton Police Department at 630-260-2161.

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https://patch.com/illinois/wheaton/thousands-jewelry-stolen-during-ruse-burglary-wheaton