The Sunnyvale Sun

News

Scammer still preying on some Sunnyvale residents

By JASON GOLDMAN-HALL

The city of Sunnyvale is still working to make sure residents don't fall prey to a scam involving a man claiming to be checking water systems who then robs the unsuspecting victim.

There have been two incidents in Sunnyvale so far, although only one was successful. Both were carried out by a man described as a clean-shaven Hispanic male in his early 30s, between 5-feet-5 and 5-feet-9 inches tall, with medium-length brown hair.

In late July, the man went to an 84-year old woman's home and told her he was from the city of Sunnyvale and was there to check for water contamination. He identified himself as Anthony and showed a laminated 4-by-6 card that said "City of Sunnyvale Employee."

He sent the woman outside to turn the water off and while she was outside stole $60 from her purse. He then left, saying he had to get more paperwork and never returned.

In the second incident several days later, the man claimed to be from a private company, and again said he was going to check for water contamination. But in that case, the resident became suspicious and called 911. The man was gone before officers arrived on the scene.

Sunnyvale public information officer John Pilger said residents should know all city employees must carry city-issued photo ID cards at all times, typically wear uniforms bearing the official logo and patches of Sunnyvale, and will never ask to enter a home.

"We will never ask to go into a person's house," Pilger said. "None of our services require that. So if someone asks to go into a house, they aren't us."

Even if a person is with a different agency, Pilger said residents should still look for identification, company vehicles or uniforms.

"Look for anything that connects the person to where they claim to be from, and if you don't see anything, or have any concerns, call 911," Pilger said.