Impostors Claim To Be City Workers, Scam OKC Residents

Police are warning residents about a scam involving transient travelers who are scamming the elderly.

The suspects, also referred to as gypsies, move into an area and run their scam for several weeks.

At least three victims have been reported in the last month.

Clifford McEntire, 75, had $50,000 stolen.

5/29/2015 Related Story: OKC Police Warn Against Group Of Burglary Suspects Targeting The Elderly

He said the gypsies showed up to his home and presented themselves as utility workers.

They gave him excuses, such as cutting down weeds along the fence, in an attempt to lure him into the backyard.

While they were talking outside, the impostor's accomplices were inside McEntire's house, grabbing everything they could.

Several hours passed before he realized what happened

"My wife says your safe is missing, and I said you are kidding," McEntire said.

He called police to report more than $50,000 missing from his safe.

Oklahoma City police informed McEntire he was not the only victim of these gypsy burglars.

In fact, the suspects had used several excuses such as needing to bury power lines or clean drainage ditches to lure elderly victims out of their homes in the last month.

"They are described as either Hispanic or white males and they are driving what appears to be a tan or silver Dodge Ram truck," said Sergeant Jennifer Wardlow.

Police also warned the suspects even go as far as placing orange cones around their truck to appear more legitimate.

They also carry radios, clip boards, and fake identification to appear more official.

"Just make sure they are who they say they are," McEntire said.

If not, police said you should call 911 immediately.

If you have any information about the cases, call Crimestoppers (405) 235-7300