Somerville Police Chief Michael Cabral has issued an advisory to residents to beware of imposters seeking to gain entry into local homes. As the Water Emergency comes to a conclusion, it is anticipated that the area will see a surge in imposter burglaries and scams by travelling criminals. Reliable intelligence indicates that there a number of these travelling criminals in the area who typically prey on elderly residents, especially those who live alone. In order to prevent residents, especially our senior residents from becoming victims and in an effort to disrupt or capture these criminals in the act of committing crimes against the elderly, the Somerville Police are taking several steps immediately.

Somerville Elder Services has been requested to notify senior residents to be mindful of imposter burglars who appear at their door requesting to gain entry under false pretenses to test the pressure or purity of their water. Often times, these criminals will appear wearing hard hats or caps with official titles, official looking badges or identification cards and wearing uniforms or safety vests. Residents are being asked NOT to let anyone into their home claiming to be from the Water Department, Health Department or any Utility Service unless a police officer is present. Residents are being instructed to call 911 if anyone claiming to be from any of the above agencies appears at their door seeking to gain entry.

Call Takers and Dispatchers SHALL treat any such call from a resident as a priority dispatch, keeping the caller on the line until the responding officer arrives. Residents will be asked for a good description of the suspect and when possible, a description of any suspect vehicle.

Responding Officers have been reminded that travelling criminals often carry police scanners and may be trying to get out of the area quickly once the call has been dispatched. They like to use pick-up trucks, especially pick-ups with caps. These trucks will usually be occupied by at least two male suspects and often, but not always, have out of state plates. They frequently use magnetic signs on the side. Sometimes, when they are about to enter a home to commit a crime, the suspect will attempt to obscure the rear registration plate. Any such vehicles will be stopped when there is a valid legal reason.

Chief Cabral said "we want our residents to be vigilant and aware of these imposters and help us to prevent our residents from becoming victims. Do not hesitate to call 911 to report suspicious persons".