Pest control scam - Update
On May 12, 2022, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office arrested two individuals for theft from a person of 65 YOA or older, home invasion by false impersonation, and grand theft by scheme. The suspects, in this case, were posing as pest control employees to enter the victims’ homes. The suspects arrested yesterday may be persons of interest in similar crimes committed in the City of Bradenton’s jurisdiction earlier this year; see below press release.
The Bradenton Police Department continues its investigation into this case and will release additional information once the investigation is completed. Anyone with additional information may contact Det. Jay Gow or Det. Todd Freed at (941) 932-9373 or (941) 932-9370.
On February 24, 2022, between 9 am-Noon, two men posing as pest control company employees entered several condominiums in the Ironwood/Pinebrook neighborhood and River Oaks Condominiums. The men convinced residents that property management hired them to treat their homes. Once inside, one suspect distracted the resident(s), convincing them to move furniture to spray, while the other suspect stole items from the house.
It’s believed the suspects were driving a dark-colored 2019 or newer model Chevrolet Silverado with a cover on the bed and a trailer hitch. In addition, a third suspect (no picture available) drove and stayed in the vehicle. The suspects wore gloves and masks during these crimes.
The suspects and their vehicles are pictured below.
Do not allow anyone into your home that you didn’t hire. If someone claiming to be a contractor working on behalf of a homeowners’ association, management company, or another company asks to enter your home, and you aren’t expecting them, confirm their employment and identity before letting them in.
If you have information on this case, contact Det. Jay Gow or Det. Todd Freed at (941) 932-9373 or (941) 932-9370. You also may email any information on this or other cases to BPDTips@BradentonPD.com. To remain anonymous and eligible for a cash reward of up to $3,000, call Crime Stoppers (toll-free) at 1-866-634-8477 (TIPS) or send an anonymous E-Tip through manateecrimestoppers.com.
