Police Holding Ruse Burglary Suspects, Seek Victims

Orland Park police are holding five people suspected of committing a rash of ruse burglaries in the village in recent weeks.

“We are asking people to come forward if they’ve been approached by people posing as utility workers or home contractors,” said Sgt. Scott Malmborg.

“We recovered one piece of jewelry, a $6,000 ring, and are asking the owner to contact us,” Malmborg said explaining a village-wide automated call from police that went out Thursday evening.

“The trouble is, the victim may not even know the ring is missing,” he said.

Ruse burglars work in groups of two or more. They approach a homeowner with a variety of tactics including offers of work around a home or questions about a property issue. While one of the burglars distracts the homeowner, one or more ransack the house looking for valuables.

“Don’t be embarrassed if it happens to you,” Malmborg said. “This is what they do for a living and they are very good at their job.”

The best way to avoid falling victim to a ruse burglary is to not let strangers into your home and call the police if you suspect someone is trying to get you to let them into your home.

If anyone believes they have been victimized by ruse burglars or discovers a valuable ring missing, they are asked to contact the Orland Park police Investigations Division by calling 708-349-4111.