Fraudster targeting seniors’ homes lies to get inside and steal, police say
A thief posing as a home care worker and is targeting seniors residential complexes in Edmonton and Strathcona County, police say. Police say since March 29 of this year the woman — who also pretends to be a visitor of other residents — is suspected of at least 15 thefts.
Using the intercom system to gain entry into buildings, the woman knocks on individual suite doors asking to use the phone or for a drink of water to gain entry to the suite, police said.
Once inside, police say the sus- pect “steals items such as cash, wallets, purses, bank cards and watches.”
She has also asked for change for counterfeit $100 bills, police said.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Catherine McAlinden, 52, is asked to contact city police.
The average age of victims is about 80.
“If you live in a condo or apartment-style complex, security is a team effort,” Det. Daniel van den Berg said in a Tuesday statement.
“Make sure you know who you are buzzing in, check through the peephole before answering your door, and remember that refusing to admit strangers is not rude, it’s safe.”