Elderly Couple Victimized in 'Distraction Type' Burglary

Jewelry and cash were stolen from an elderly Greenwich couple's home during what police described as a "distraction type" burglary involving two men claiming to be water company representatives.

According to police, one of the men came to the door of the couple's Byram home at about 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 19, said he was with the water company and was there to check the water pressure.

Upon entering the house the false water company employee was escorted to the basement by the husband, while the second false water company employee entered through the unlocked front door.

The second suspect then went through the bedrooms and stole cash and jewelry, police said in a release.

As the second suspect was exiting a bedroom the wife saw him and asked what he was doing there. The second suspect told the wife he was a water company employee and was there to check the water pressure. The two men then had a brief exchange in Spanish and quickly left, police said. No one was hurt.

Police said the husband told them the first suspect did not have a Spanish accent.

The first suspect was described as a clean-shaven male, about 5 feet 7 inches, with a stocky build. He was wearing a dark colored winter coat with a hood and baseball type cap.

The second suspect is as a male, approximately 50 years old, possibly with a limp. He was wearing a dark shirt, jeans and a baseball cap.

The Greenwich Police Department reminds residents that all utility company employees wear uniforms and carry ID cards. If workers cannot produce identification, residents should not allow them into their homes and further should contact the police department at (203) 622-8001. If possible, try to get the license plate number of the vehicle the workers arrived in.

Aquarion Water Company is aware of the problem and recently issued the following statement:

“In light of recent cases around the state where criminals posing as utility workers have gained entrance to people’s homes, we want to stress the importance of being careful and conscientious when allowing anyone into private residences,” said Charles V. Firlotte, Aquarion President and CEO. “Our company follows strict protocols when entering customers’ homes and businesses, which include showing the customer an Aquarion photo ID. We also encourage any customer who is unsure or has concerns, to call our Customer Service Department.” Anyone who has further questions or would like additional information about how to identify an Aquarion employee may contact Aquarion Customer Service at (203)-445-7310. Customers outside the Greater Bridgeport area can call 1-800-732-9678.