Police Warn of Utility Worker Scam

Local police agencies are warning residents about a scam in which an impostor poses as a utility worker to gain entry into homes and steal valuables. 

According to the Prince George's County Police Department, on the afternoon of July 23, one such suspect approached an elderly woman at her home in the 1600 block of Elson Street in Chillum, identified himself as an employee of a water company and told her that he was there to check out an issue with her water system. 

But once inside, the suspect made off with money. 

According to Prince George's County police, the suspect was wearing a uniform shirt and displayed an unknown badge before gaining entry into the home. 

The suspect is described as a white man in his late 30s, standing about 6 feet tall and weighing about 180 pounds. A second suspect is also believed to be involved in the scam, but police do not have a description of the other suspect. 

Police are asking the public to keep their wits about them when strangers come knocking at the door, even if they appear to be on legitimate business. 

"Most utility workers do not need access to a customer's home," reads a news release from county police. "Utility workers are required to wear uniforms and drive vehicles that are clearly marked. They are also required to wear their work badges where it’s visible to customers.  The worker should also be able to provide his or her supervisor’s name and contact information.  If for any reason you are still unsure of the individual’s identity, please call the utility company for confirmation as well as the police."

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call investigators at 301-699-2601 to provide their tips. Information can also be anonymously submitted by calling Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-8477, by sending a text message beginning with the word "PGPD" to CRIMES (274637), or by going to the Prince George's Crime Solvers website to submit a tip.