CCSO warns residents of an uptick in distraction burglaries

Collier County Sheriff’s Office is issuing a warning for all to be extra cautious. There’s an uptick in distraction burglaries, which is where thieves trick or con the homeowner into letting them inside their home to steal money and valuables.

“They’re desperate,” said neighbor Betty Plantz.

A Collier County Sheriff’s deputy posted on social media about suspects sneakily burglarizing a Golden Gate Estates home. The suspects lured the homeowner into the backyard saying they had to check the property line for some tree work.

“I would really feel violated,” Plantz said.

In 2017, two men posed as plumbers and asked to look at a homeowner’s faucet in Naples. While one was helping the homeowner, the other helped himself to her jewelry. After that incident, deputies went door knocking to teach residents of distraction burglaries.

“I don’t understand why people want to steal,” said Golden Gate Estates resident Sue Gibson. “You work hard for your stuff, and I don’t want anybody taking it.”

Deputies say to not open the door for anyone you may not recognize or didn’t call to your home. If you do, deputies say to lock the door if you follow them outside.