Detectives warn against scam activity
by Al Summers -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Detectives with the Gilmer County Sheriff’s Department have issued a warning asking citizens of the county, especially those who are elderly and live alone, to be cautious of people who come to their homes and say they need to measure the inside of the structure so the homeowner can receive assistance with their heating bills. Det. Lane Bennett of the department’s criminal investigation division (CID) said this activity is a scam and a few people in Gilmer County have already fallen victim to it. The detective told the Times-Courier, “In most all cases, they show up at a house and announce that they ‘are there to help’ the homeowner procure some kind of help with their energy bills. “If they are allowed entry, one of them tells the homeowner they need to measure the house and while the one with the measuring device keeps the homeowner busy, the second perpetrator removes objects from the home,” said Bennett. “In one case, the criminals took the service medals of a lady’s deceased husband.” The detective has asked that people keep an eye on their neighbor’s property and to report anything suspicious. “If you observe anything suspicious, get a tag number off of a vehicle, a description of the vehicle, and a description of who is in the vehicle, if possible. But the main thing is do not let anyone into your home if you do not know them.” Bennett suggested that people inventory all of their belongings, complete with serial numbers, and make photos of belongings if one has that capability. The detective concluded, “People observing suspicious behavior should contact the Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office at (706) 635-4162, the CID at (706) 635-4646, or call 911. |