Police Seek Burglars Who Pose as Tree Trimmers

Police are seeking the public’s help in finding two men who approach elderly women, claim to be tree trimmers or repairmen, and then burglarize the women’s homes.

At least seven incidents have been reported to police involving the two men, described by victims as Latinos in their mid-20s to 30s, driving a white compact truck. Five incidents have occurred in Mar Vista, Police Det. Dave Straky said.

Last week, the men burglarized three homes on the same day, taking more than $16,000 worth of cash and jewelry from one home, detectives said. According to victims, the two in some instances offer up to $100 in cash to the victims to let them enter the house and use their electricity. As one suspect distracts the resident outside the home, the other commits the burglary.

Anyone with information is asked to call Straky at (310) 202-4506.