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Blog: Someone wants access to your home?

Beware of allowing anyone into your home, including someone claiming to be a police officer. This particular subject is prudent because criminals will use any method of disguise to get into your home to commit criminal acts either immediately, or to “case” the home and return later when unoccupied. They could be claiming to represent a utility company, sell magazines, sell gift sets, sell/install alarm systems, or even say they are police officers wanting to interview you about a crime. Until you can validate that they are who they say they are (and they legitimately need access), don’t let them in. Anyone who is legitimate won’t have an issue with you verifying their identity.

If someone is selling or installing security alarms, they should have a “pocket card” (ID card) from the Texas Department of Public Safety, as well as contact information about their company. If you are unsure, call the company and verify their identity (look up the number yourself, don’t use the one they give you). Most police officers (sheriff’s deputies, constables, etc.) wear a uniform. If they claim to be a plainclothes detective, ask to see not only their badge (these can be ordered online), but their actual agency credentials. Again, if you are unsure, call the agency to verify their identity (still look up the number yourself).

A group of impersonators was recently arrested in New York for claiming to be detectives (they had fake badges), gaining access to homes, and then committing criminal acts. Every now and then, an impersonator is arrested here in San Antonio. Last year, an individual who claimed to be a police officer was arrested after attempting to sexually assault a woman who believed he was authentic and actually got into his vehicle. A suspicious convenience store clerk called 911 on her behalf. Don’t let it happen to you.

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