Protecting Yourself

Authorities say this type of crime is unusual but the target is not. And elderly people aren't the only ones at risk. "It does stand out as being a little peculiar." Sergeant Steve Hauck of the Utica Police Department is referring to a recent investigation concerning an elderly victim being burglarized by the same suspect. Unfortunately the target was not unique and police say child can be targets as well. "Sometimes elderly people, when they're victims of a crime don't always reach out and report it. The suspects use their age against them and try to confuse them or try to convince them that they know who they are."

Some citizens say they would know how to react if put in the same situation but they know who criminals will target. "Our senior citizens are amongst the most venerable and if I can use the word despicable, to victimize someone that's old. You know you attack someone your own age that can possibly defend themselves that's one thing but somebody's that's totally defenseless that's unspeakable."

Police say that age is a main reason why children and the elderly are targets but they do offer some advice. "Unfortunately that makes them especially venerable to being victimized so it's important that you communicate that they need to lock their doors, keep their doors locked all the time, keep their cars locked all the time, don't share information over the phone, don't share information when somebody comes to your door. And you need to call the police to make us aware of it."