August 30, 2007

Police warn Almaden, Willow Glen and Cambrian residents of possible crimes

Over several months, a number of burglaries have occurred throughout Santa Clara County, including western and southern San Jose. The San Jose Police Department Burglary Unit is investigating several reports of suspects impersonating Water District employees, or construction workers who contact senior citizens at their homes. The suspects say they are with the Water District or construction crew, doing work in the area due to problems with the water lines.

The suspect says he needs to test the water. Typically, the suspect will ask the victim to perform some task in one part of the house or yard while the suspect or a partner goes to other parts of the house and burglarizes the home. The suspect(s) leaves the residence after taking money, jewelry, passports, guns or other small items.

Citizens should not allow any unscheduled visitor, repairman or “company employee” of any type into their homes. We recommend citizens call 9-1-1 immediately for any suspicious person, vehicle or activity in your neighborhood.

Suspect(s) Description:
Several suspects appear to be committing the burglaries. They are usually men 30-35 years old, 5 feet 10 inches to 6 feet tall, short brown hair, facial hair with olive complexions. On occasion, the suspects wear orange work vests and hard hats. One suspect has been described as a WMA or HMA in his mid 40s to mid 50s with a round face and heavy build. The last incident involved a suspect described as HMA or middle Eastern, medium build, clean shaven, 6 feet tall and wearing a hard hat.

Associated Vehicles:
Cargo-type white van, utility truck or SUV-type of vehicles.

Anyone with information on this case is urged to call the San Jose Police Department Burglary Unit at (408) 277-4401. Persons wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 408-947-STOP.