Lemont Police Warn of Scams After Resident Loses Social Security Card, Cash

are urging residents — especially the elderly — to be on alert for scam artists in the wake of a residential burglarly this week.

At approximately noon on Wednesday, in the 12000 block of Derby Road, a heavy-set, white male — who police believe is 30-40 years old — approached a home in a white cargo van, according to police.

The man went to the front door of the home and identified himself as a Lemont Public Works employee, then entered the resident's basement. The man took cash, checks and the victim's social security card, police said.

The victim believes a second male was inside the van, according to police.

On Thursday, Lemont Police Chief Kevin Shaughnessy told Patch that the Cook County Sheriff's Department had responded to the call, since the incident took place in unincorporated Lemont.

A spokesperson with the Cook County Sheriff's Office confirmed the incident Thursday afternoon, and said the case is currently under investigation.

Shaughnessy said a similar incident was reported recently in nearby Homer Glen.

On Nov. 25, in the 14000 block of South Kickapoo Trail, a Hispanic male wearing an electrician's uniform and white hard hat went to an elderly person's home, and stated he was there to do an inspection due to electrical problems in the area, police said.

The victim's son drove up and saw three Hispanic males exit the residence and drive away in a silver SUV, taking an undetermined amount of the victim's jewelry, police said.

Lemont Public Works Director Ralph Pukula said residents should be aware that Lemont Public Works employees carry identification, wear orange T-shirts with the village logo and travel in marked trucks.

Typically, public works employees do not ask to enter a home unless an appointment has been made by the resident, he said.

In a press release issued Friday morning, Shaughnessy urged residents to be on alert for scams and cons, especially those that victimize seniors.

"Never allow anyone into your home for any reason, unless you have initiated the contact," he said.

Lemont police provided the following tips for avoiding scams:

• If someone comes to your door and tries to sell you a service, be suspicious and ask them to leave. Many of the cons used to rip off innocent victims, particularly senior citizens, involve repair work, free inspections or landscaping jobs.

• Some cons, as seen in the two recent cases, involve individuals pretending to be utility workers or government officials. Do not unlock or open your door, especially if you live alone — even if he or she says they are on official business or there is an emergency. Use a peep hole to verify their identification, and talk through the door.

• Scam artists often work with a partner or a team, so watch out for someone attempting to gain entrance to your home through another door or window.

• Call to verify the identity and business of the individual using a number you obtain yourself. You may call 911 to have an officer assist you in checking.

• If the person tries to leave when you ask questions, make note of the license plate number, vehicle description and direction of travel, and call 911 immediately.

• Do not store large amounts of cash or valuables in your home. Instead, use a safety deposit box at a local bank.

• If you need someone in your home to do work, arrange for a friend or family member to be present while the work is being done.

• Be sure you are able to see anyone doing work inside your home at all times.

• Do not keep any financial paperwork or identification in plain sight, as this creates a serious risk of identity theft.

For more information, contact Lemont Police Sgt. Therese Thompson at 630-257-2229.