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Elderly Lower Burrell Couple Targeted In Scam

LOWER BURRELL (KDKA) -- A new twist on an old scam has homeowners in Westmoreland County on alert after several people have been targeted.

Norbert Adams, 88, and his wife, Gloria, have lived in their Lower Burrell home for 56 years. Recently, they received some visitors.

"They had yellow hard hats on and they represented themselves as workers for the New Ken Water Authority," said Adams.

They asked to see the World War II veteran's property lines.

"Got me to get my jacket on and go outside," said Adams. "Another fellow must have been in the van. He talked to him with his radio. This fellow [came] back into the house while I was out in the yard."

However, once inside, the other bogus utility man discovered that Adams wasn't home alone.

"My wife was in the house," he said.

Despite this, the man started looking in the homes' bedrooms. Adams' son, who was also home, confronted the individual.

"By the time I got back to the house. They were gone. They left in a hurry," said Adams. "Didn't get away with anything."

However, a woman and her daughter in New Alexandria weren't so lucky.

Two alleged utility workers pulled the same move. They even had fake identification badges.

They stole several thousand dollars in jewelry and cash.

The suspects are described as two males with dark complexions, possibly Hispanic. One of the men was tall and the other was short. They spoke in southern accents.

They had walkie talkies and were driving a white van.

The best thing you can do is make sure all your doors are locked around you house. That way the only way they can contact you is through the front door. Remember, you are not obligated to let them.

RELATED LINKS:
More Westmoreland County News
More Reports by Ross Guidotti

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