According to the VPD, most victims report that one individual, often wearing a utility worker-type safety vest, knocks on the door, identifies themself as an employee of the water department and asks to come into the home to check the water.
The individual then takes the resident into the basement to check the pipes, the VPD says, while additional individuals enter the home and take items.
The VPD notes that all Verona township employees are issued photo identification that is usually worn on a lanyard and is readily visible. Employees of other utility-type businesses like PSE&G, Verizon and Comcast also carry company identification, and usually have a company vehicle nearby that clearly shows the company name and logo.
“If you are in doubt, please do not let the person into your home,” the VPD alert says. “Close the door and call the police. The non-emergency number for Verona is 973-239-5000. In an emergency, dial 911.”
