Burglar claimed to be from 'the water company'

A 40yearold man was arrested last week after police said he gained access to residents' homes by posing as a public works employee before making off with the homeowners' valuables.

Glen Parnell of Simi Valley was booked at Ventura County Mail on charges of burglary, identity theft and unlawful use of an access card.

According to Simi police, mobile home park residents had recently been the targets of a suspect who falsely represented himself as a public utility worker to gain access to the victim's residence and commit burglary.

Police said Parnell, posing as an employee of "the water company," would contact the resident at his or her front door.

Having already turned off the water to the residence, Parnell allegedly told the victim that he was there to reactivate the water service.

Police said that upon obtaining permission to enter, Parnell would instruct the victim to go to another room to turn on the faucets and watch for the water to come on.

While the victim was in another room, he would steal cash, credit cards, jewelry and other small valuables.

Victims would not discover the theft had occurred until after the impostor left.

Since Sept. 9, Parnell allegedly completed two of these crimes and made three other unsuccessful attempts.

The vehicle used in the crimes was identified Sept. 22.

Simi Valley police found a truck matching the description in the area of Los Angeles Avenue and Sycamore Drive, and they found Parnell inside, they said.

The police department reminded residents to always verify the identity of anyone approaching their home and claiming to be an employee of a public utility or other service.

A legitimate worker will not hesitate to produce employee identification.

Residents should call the police department at (805) 583-6950 to report suspicious or criminal behavior.