Nutley police warn of utility scam after resident reports cash stolen
Authorities say a man posing as a utility worker entered a home under false pretenses before money was reported missing.
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A Nutley resident described by police as "elderly" was the victim of an apparent utility scam after a man posing as a utility worker allegedly entered the home and stole cash, police said.
According to the Nutley Police Department, the man went to the resident's home and claimed he was "with gas and electric supply," telling the resident he needed to check for a possible gas leak.
The resident allowed the man inside, and he walked through every room of the home before leaving about 10 minutes later, police said.
The following day, the resident discovered that a sum of cash was missing from a wallet, according to police.
Authorities said the incident is an example of a common scam in which suspects pose as utility company employees to gain access to homes.
Police urged residents to ask for and verify a utility worker's photo identification before allowing anyone inside. They also advised residents to contact the utility company directly to confirm whether a representative was sent to the home and to call police if they have concerns about an unexpected visit.
Police are asking anyone who recognizes him or has information that could help identify him to call the Nutley Police Department at 973-284-4940.
(Photo Credit: Nutley Police Department)
