Nutley, NJ – Police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man accused of targeting an elderly resident in Nutley by posing as a utility worker before allegedly stealing cash from the victim’s home.
According to the Nutley Police Department, the incident occurred Thursday when the suspect knocked on the resident’s door and claimed he was “with gas and electric supply,” telling the homeowner he needed to inspect the residence for a possible gas leak.
Suspect inspected every room before leaving
Police said the resident allowed the man inside, where he walked through every room of the home during what appeared to be a legitimate inspection. The suspect remained inside for about 10 minutes before leaving.
The following day, the resident discovered that a sum of cash was missing from her wallet. Investigators believe the theft occurred while the suspect was inside the residence.
“The suspect responded to the resident’s door and advised her he was ‘with gas and electric supply’ stating he needed to check her home for a possible gas leak,” the department said in a public alert. Police added, “Today the resident noticed a sum of cash was missing from her wallet.”
Police warn of common impersonation scam
Investigators released photographs of the suspect and are asking anyone who recognizes him or has information about the case to contact the Nutley Police Department at (973) 284-4940.
The department said this type of impersonation is a common scam in which suspects pose as employees of utility companies to gain access to homes, particularly those of elderly residents.
“Remember to always ask for and check the utility representative’s photo identification card before admitting the person onto your premises,” the department advised. Police also urged residents to contact the utility company directly to verify any unscheduled visit and to call law enforcement immediately if they have concerns about a person’s identity or reason for requesting entry.
The investigation remains active as detectives work to identify the suspect shown in the photographs released by the department.
