Crime & Safety

Maple Shade Police Warn of Possible Scam, Diversion Burglary

Local police in surrounding towns urge residents to be cautious.

Maple Shade Police are warning residents of yet another scam/diversion burglary attempt that occurred Tuesday.

Police said a male suspect approached an elderly male resident in his driveway on Paul Road and offered to paint the man’s vehicle, as well as that of another elderly male neighbor who was there, for $600.

The victim took the suspect into his house to speak with his wife and the suspect claimed his shop was over by the White Horse Pike, but was flooded out from the storm so he was out looking for work.

Once the victims told the suspect they had to check with their son before agreeing to the work, the suspect left in a hurry, police said, claiming he would be back next week with a brochure. He never provided a name or contact information.

Police described the suspect’s car as beige or tan and said there was a second man in the front seat, as well as two women in the back seat. At least one of the women had gray/blonde hair.

The main suspect was in his older 50s, black hair, with possibly some gray in it, not clean-shaven, but with no beard or mustache. The victims described him as “Italian-looking.”

Police believe this was either a scam to take money from the victim without providing any service or possibly another distraction burglary intended to get into the house and steal items. The victims told police they didn’t think anything was stolen, but were still checking.

and Mount Laurel police have also reported diversion burglaries within the last two weeks, as well as another in Maple Shade, that . In those cases, the suspects made off with several items, including cash, jewelry and, in one case, a handgun.

Police have warned residents to be wary if they’re approached by supposed solicitors or anyone who claims to be a utility worker, especially if they don’t present valid identification.

Call police at the following numbers to report suspicious activity:

  • Moorestown Police —856-235-0130, or the police tip line for non-emergencies at 856-914-3092.
  • Maple Shade Police — 856-234-8300
  • Mount Laurel Police —856-234-1414, ext. 521, or for non-emergencies call the tip line at ext. 599.


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