Police have issued a warning to residents after a burglary in Hollis Hills, Queens, where intruders disguised themselves as construction workers. The incident occurred this past Tuesday morning, when a homeowner’s surveillance system captured a man in a yellow safety vest exiting her home.
The homeowner, who wishes to remain anonymous as the suspects remain at-large, captured the suspects on camera and described the unsettling experience to Natalie Duddridge in a CBS News New York report.
"I just dropped everything and said, ‘My house was just broken into,’ and I sped home. The police were already here," she recounted. Upon arriving, she found her house ransacked and personal items missing.
The surveillance footage revealed three men dressed in construction attire entering the house. Neighbors had seen the men earlier but did not find their presence suspicious, as the house was undergoing renovations.
“They brought a collapsible ladder,” the homeowner explained. “They opened it up, went to my guest room, and broke in.”
Fortunately, the home's alarm system was triggered, scaring off the intruders. They struggled to exit the home and eventually escaped through a window, one of them carrying a black bag. The homeowner believes the burglars stole only a sentimental handbag gifted by her late mother.
Just before the break-in, the homeowner suspects the burglars used a Wi-Fi jammer to disable local internet access, rendering her and her neighbors’ security systems temporarily ineffective. “My neighbors lost Wi-Fi, and we believe they used this device to interfere with the signals,” she said.
This incident highlights the importance of vigilance and taking additional security measures, even during home renovations. The homeowner expressed gratitude that no one was harmed, adding, “Thank G-d I’m okay, and no one was home.”
Avoid Being a Victim
Ask workers for their IDs: Always verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a utility worker or contractor before allowing them access to your property.
Question any unannounced visits: Legitimate workers usually notify homeowners in advance.
Shut the door until you can verify the visit with your utility company: Call the company directly to confirm the visit.
Install security measures: Consider adding cameras, alarm systems, or motion sensors around your property to deter intruders.
Call 911 if you are unsure: If something feels off, trust your instincts and report suspicious behavior immediately.
Report a Crime
Call the NYPD Crime Stoppers Hotline: 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).
Submit a tip online: www.crimestoppers.nypdonline.org.
Submit a tip on X (formerly known as Twitter): @NYPDTips.
By staying vigilant and proactive, residents can help protect themselves and their communities from similar crimes.
