WPD Warns Residents of Seasonal Scams, Burglaries After Robbery in Hopelawn

The following information was provided by Woodbridge Township. 

The Woodbridge Police Department (WPD) has issued an alert cautioning residents to be aware of potential seasonal scams, burglaries, and robberies and reminding residents to make sure people claiming to be public utility workers - or other types of public service employees - are in fact who they say they are.  

The WPD warning is in response to a reported robbery of an elderly couple in the Hopelawn section of Woodbridge Township on April 25, 2013.  The preliminary investigation determined that Suspect #1 approached the elderly male resident working outside in the yard and announced that he was investigating a problem with the water main and that he required access to the basement to check the water supply.  At the same time, Suspect #2 gained entrance to the residence, encountered the elderly female resident, pretended to threaten the resident with a gun, ransacked the home, taking an amount of cash and valuables.  Suspect #1 is described as a white male, approximately 5’10”, weighing 210-220 pounds, black hair, salt/pepper goatee and approximately 50-60 years of age.  Suspect #2 is described as a white female, approximately 40-45 years of age, 5’0”-5’2” tall, weighing 100-110 pounds, with dirty blond hair.  The suspects were driving a white motor vehicle.  Anyone with information regarding the April 25 robbery in Hopelawn should contact WPD Detective Anthony Penicaro at 732-602-7345.

As a result of this incident, the WPD again reminds Township residents to demand identification from anyone claiming to be an employee or worker with a utility company; keep doors and windows locked; and to not allow “workers” into the home.  Residents should contact the WPD to come to the house to check the ID of anyone trying to gain entry without a prescheduled appointment or proper identification.  Call the WPD at: 732-634-7700.