Crime & Safety
Mentor Police Investigate Duo Posing as Tree Trimmers & Burglarizing Homes
The suspects are described as a white man and woman who drive a '90s red F-150 and/or a light-colored SUV.
Mentor Police are investigating a duo who have been luring residents out of their homes and burglarizing them.
A white man and woman have been posing as workers for a tree-trimming business, knocking on doors around the city and possibly other locations in Lake County, the Mentor Police Department posted on Facebook. The woman usually knocks on the door and eventually tells the homeowner to come outside to look at a tree, while the male accomplice enters the home.
An 81-year-old man on Forest Lane reported a burglary of items worth about $35,000 from his home last week in an incident similar to police's description.
Police said the duo have been seen driving a '90s red F-150 and/or a light-colored SUV.
"If anyone comes to your home unscheduled inquiring about providing you tree service, lawn service or any service where they 'need' you to leave your home to show you the area to service - BE ALERT and do not leave your home unattended," the police's Facebook post reads. "All solicitors must have a permit from the city. If things seem fishy call us immediately and safely try and get a description of the suspects and their vehicle."
Police are available at 440-255-1234.
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