Thieves Pose As Utility Workers, Rob Elderly Couple In South Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — Two cruel thieves, posing as Water Department workers, slipped into the South Philadelphia home where an elderly couple has lived for decades stealing more than $2,000 cash and jewelry.
Police say the robbers conned the Korean War veteran and his wife into allowing them inside their home at 20th and Porter Streets. One thief then lured the couple to the basement to check water pipes while the second went upstairs rifling drawers stealing the couple's cash and treasured possessions.
Investigators say the couple was not injured. Family members rushed to their home, along with friends, to console them after police arrived around 3 p.m.
"I can't believe it. They are really nice people, really keep to themselves. I mean they are good neighbors. If you ever need anything they are always out there to help you. Really horrible, I cant believe it. I'm shocked. My wife just told me," says neighbor Joe Criniti.
Police tell CBS 3 they are trying to determine if the theft is connected to a similar one December 20, a few blocks away at 17th and Bigler Streets, in which a lone robber, posing as a water department worker, made off with $10,000 cash.
Anyone who has information about the thieves, who struck around 2 p.m. wearing uniforms and baseball caps, should call South Detective Division at 215-686-3013.
