Police Warn Against Burglary Ruse

Los Altos Police are warning against a ruse that resulted in one south Los Altos resident losing jewelry.

The June 29 incident came in as a report of a burglary in the 2000 block of El Sereno Avenue. The victim told police the first suspect knocked on the front door at about 11:00 a.m., inquiring about buying a vehicle that was parked in the driveway.

Police then described how the suspect worked: The victim was lured outside to discuss the potential purchase, leaving the front door unsecured, police said. The suspect continued questioning the victim for approximately 20 minutes, at which time the second suspect appeared. The victim advised the suspects to speak with her husband regarding the potential purchase, police said. She asked for a phone number, or name, but was unsuccessful. The suspects advised they would return at 5:00 p.m., but never did. It appears that the second suspect entered the home while the first suspect distracted the victim.

The victim later discovered jewelry missing from her home.

"This type of distraction technique is common and we have seen criminals will tend to target a particular city or neighborhood for several days before moving to another location," Sgt. Scott McCrossin said in a news release.

He asked that residents to be aware of this type of crime and immediately notify the police department of any such unusual activity.

The first suspect is described as a Caucasian male, approximately 35 years old, 5 feet 8 inches tall, heavy set and with a dark complexion. A sketch of that suspect is attached. 

The second suspect is also described as a Caucasian male adult, approximately 35 years old, 5 feet 9 inches tall and approximately 160 pounds, wearing green Ray Ban Aviator style sunglasses.

Anyone with information about this particular crime should contact the Los Altos PoliceDepartment Investigations Unit at (650) 947-2821.