Fake Utility Workers Strike Again

A pair of fake utility workers have struck again, but this time in a different Gulf Coast community.

Escambia County sheriff's deputies are investigating two cases in the Warrington Community near Pensacola.

In the first case, a woman in her 80s says two men, who claimed to be with the water company, forced themselves inside her Poppy Avenue home Saturday afternoon.

While one of the phony utility workers distracted her with questions about water pressure, the second man stole $50 from a purse in her bedroom.

In the second case, an elderly woman said a man came to her door on Delray Drive, but instead of coming inside, the fake worker told her he would be back later in the afternoon.

"He asked her if she needed any bottled water, and that was probably his way to get inside," said Sgt. Ted Roy of the Escambia County Sheriff's Office.
"She immediately called ECUA and they said there was no one working the area."

Investigators do not know whether the latest incidents are connected to six similar cases reported in Mobile in recent weeks.

Water company officials insist they never go to a home unless the customer has reported a problem. If you are suspicious of someone who comes to your door, call 911.