YARD WORK SCAM TARGETS ELDERLY

SUNNYVALE, Calif. – A group of suspects has targeted residents of Sunnyvale and other Bay Area cities in a yard work scam. The suspects work in groups of three to six people and are described as Hispanic-looking, ranging in age between 17 and 45. Different vehicles have been identified as being used by the suspects, including a 1990s blue Chevrolet Astro van, a red van and an olive green SUV.

The scam begins with one or two of the suspects approaching the home of their intended victim. They tell the victim that they are working on a neighbor’s tree or fence or they find some other reason to gain access to the victim’s back yard. The suspects lure the victim into the yard to keep him or her occupied while additional suspects enter the home to steal money, jewelry or other valuables.

Sunnyvale detectives are working with law enforcement agencies from throughout the South Bay region to identify and apprehend the suspects. The criminals have struck 11 times so far, with four of the crimes taking place in Sunnyvale.

Detectives speculate the elderly are targeted because of their generally trusting nature and they may be more easily distracted or confused by multiple suspects. Anyone witnessing this type of activity should notify their local police immediately by dialing 911. Anyone with information about these incidents should contact Sunnyvale Detective Eric Fujii at (408) 730-7650.