Tree Trimmer Distraction Burglary Reported at Gentry Ave. Home

Los Angeles police say two men posing as Department of Water and Power workers burglarized a home in the 4400 block of Gentry Avenue at 3:30 p.m., Nov. 19 through another distraction tactic.

It is one of the most recent reported distraction burglaries in the Studio City and North Hollywood area.

According to Senior Lead Officer Michael Lewis, one suspect knocked at the victim's door claiming to be trimming trees for the city and was working on a neighbor's yard but needed access to the victim's yard.

The suspect led the victim into their backyard, Lewis said, and explained all the work that needed to be done and what releases needed to be signed by those living in the home.

While keeping the victim occupied by the backyard, the first suspect communicated with an accomplice on his walkie talkie radio, who entered the home and burglarized it. The suspects left in a black car.

If you encounter anyone claiming to be a city worker, tree trimmer or any other professional person, ask for identification, according to LAPD. Do not allow anyone into your residence or in your backyard without confirming that the person is an employee of the company they are claim to represent. If in doubt, call the company to confirm that work is being done. Additionally, city employees typically do not appear at customers' doors unannounced, according to LAPD. They provide prior written notice of work to be done. Police recommend to ask a lot of questions since the suspects depend on victims being trusting, kind and not wanting to offend.

If you have any information about this incident, contact the North Hollywood Police Station 818-623-4016 and Senior Lead Officer Lewis 818-634-2593.