Longboat police warn of distraction burglary scheme

Longboat Key Police are urging residents to be aware of thieves posing as workers in light of a “distraction burglary” that occurred on the Key last week.

The incident took place near the 1100 block of Bogey Lane in Country Club Shores between 2 and 3 p.m. Thursday.

According to the two victims' report to police, a man knocked on the couple’s door and told them he was there to do survey work, which required him to check for property markers in the backyard. The residents accompanied the man to the backyard where the man “called his supervisor” and asked for a metal detector. The man then told the victims that he would need to retrieve the metal detector and left.

While the couple was in the backyard with the first man, it is alleged that a second person entered the residence.

The victims did not realize anything had been taken from their home until late Thursday night. They called Key police early on Friday morning to report missing more than $8,000 worth of jewelry.

Victims described the first man as a “well-groomed” Hispanic man, about 5-foot-8, weighing between 160 and 170 pounds. He was clean shaven with dark hair, and wearing a gray and green sweater vest. He was reported to be driving a newer model maroon pickup truck.

The other person was not seen by the victims. Police Chief Pete Cumming said officers canvassed the neighborhood on Friday and were told of a suspicious man in the area, but officers were not able to get a detailed description.

Police are advising residents not to allow anyone access to their property to perform work that the residents did not ask for.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Longboat Key Police at 941-316-1977.

This is a developing story. More information will be added as it becomes available.