Frankfort Police To Offer Ruse Burglary Prevention Program

FRANKFORT, IL — The Frankfort Police Department will begin offering a new program designed for older adults to spot and avoid ruse burglaries and other scams, according to Frankfort Police Chief Leanne Chelepis.

A presentation of the program, called "No Notice No Entry," is scheduled for 10 a.m. June 9 at the Frankfort Village Hall, 432 W. Nebraska St.

A ruse burglary is when criminals pose as employees of a utility company or other businesses to gain access to a residence. The burglars often work in teams, with one person distracting the homeowner while others sneak into the home to steal things.

The Frankfort Police Department in 2021 reported 219 cases involving various scams, according to information provided by Chelepis. Those cases included:

• 206 cases of identity theft.
• Six cases of deceptive practice.
• Four cases of theft by deception.
• Three cases of ruse burglary.

Attendees of the presentation will be given "No Notice No Entry" magnets and static clings, which can be used as a warning to would-be thieves that access to the home will not be given without an appointment. The magnets will also display the Frankfort Police Department non-emergency number.

The Frankfort Police Department will also offer free presentations and materials to homeowner's associations, during TRIAD meetings and other groups that might benefit from the presentation.

For more information, contact the Frankfort Police Department at (815) 469-9435.