Distraction burglars hit two homes in Sarasota

SARASOTA, Fla - The Sarasota Sheriff's Office is warning homeowners to be on the look out for distraction burglars.  At least 2 homes were hit on Wednesday, and more than $20,000 in jewelry and cash was taken.   It happened at a home on Siesta Key and in Venice.

The Sheriff's office say the suspects randomly show up at homes and claim to be contractors or city officials.  The lure the home owner outside by telling them they will be doing work on the victims property line.  When the victims goes outside with the suspect, another suspect sneeks inside and robs the home.

The suspects are described as men in their 40's driving a black or blue passenger car or small SUV.  Investigators believe the men target their victims at grocery stores or restaurants.  They will observe the kind of jewelry the potential victim is wearing and then follow them home.

The Sheriff's office warns to avoid becoming a victim: don't wear expensive jewelry to the store. If someone randomly shows up at your home and asked you to come outside, refuse, and ask for official papers or credentials that can be verified with a phone call.