Mentor Man Reports $35K Burglary From Home After Visit From 'Tree-Trimming Business'

An 81-year-old Mentor man reported a burglary of items worth about $35,000 from his home this week.

Police responded at about 3:50 p.m. Monday to the Forest Lane home after the homeowner said a diamond ring, rare gold coins, and several, old $100 bills had been stolen from his bedroom, according to the Mentor Police Department's Facebook page. The man discovered the theft shortly after a woman knocked on his door and claimed to be a representative of a tree-trimming service.

According to police, the man's home health aide soon arrived and saw a man leave one of the rooms in the home. Police did not announce any arrests related to the case.

Mentor Police used the Facebook post to provide a reminder about visitors who say they are with a service company.

"Do not allow any unknown persons into your home or allow them to occupy your time in a location outside of your home," the post reads. "If you believe they are a legitimate service provider and you have an interest in their service, schedule a time for them to return when another person is home or when a friend or relative can be with you.

"This type of crime primarily targets elderly residents but is not limited to them."