Residents are being warned to keep their doors locked and not welcome strangers into their homes following a series of scams involving area seniors.
Police in Novi say a diversion tactic called a "Gypsy Scam" was used several times in November to get into the homes of residents to steal valuables. Investigators say older adults were approached at their homes and engaged in a conversation with a woman who used various stories to gain their trust. Once inside, the woman distracts the homeowner while a man sneaks inside and steals things such as jewelry and cash.
Novi Director of Public Safety David E. Molloy said, "In this case, we are asking everyone to have a watchful eye on our older citizens, especially those living alone, and encourage anyone observing suspicious activity to call the Novi Police Department immediately."
The woman is described as being approximately 5'3 tall, between 30-40 years of age, heavy-set build with a round face, dark, collar length hair. The male suspect is approximately 6' tall, thin build with short dark hair. They were seen driving a white Ford Edge or Explorer.
Anyone with information regarding these or similar incidents is encouraged to Novi police at: 248-348-7100.
Wednesday, May 22 2013 8:57 PM EDT2013-05-23 00:57:50 GMT
Prosecutors have now filed charges against Myron Williams, a next door neighbor to a woman found strangled in Grosse Pointe Park, but the counts do not include murder.
Prosecutors have now filed charges against Myron Williams, a next door neighbor to a woman found strangled in Grosse Pointe Park, but the counts do not include murder.
Wednesday, May 22 2013 8:38 PM EDT2013-05-23 00:38:51 GMT
Neighbors said he threatened them with a shotgun, then opened fire wounding two people. Now one of the victims has said he's angry the man accused of pulling the trigger is already out of jail.
Neighbors said he threatened them with a shotgun, then opened fire wounding two people. Now one of the victims has said he's angry the man accused of pulling the trigger is already out of jail.
Wednesday, May 22 2013 6:46 PM EDT2013-05-22 22:46:26 GMT
Bugs are important to our environment and can even tell us about our water quality. That's why dozens on local students have been taking part in bug hunts.
Bugs are important to our environment and can even tell us about our water quality. That's why dozens on local students have been taking part in bug hunts.
Wednesday, May 22 2013 9:28 PM EDT2013-05-23 01:28:18 GMT
13 dogs were rescued from a house on Ewers in southwest Detroit. The three most emaciated dogs were taken to the VCA in St. Clair Shores. They are being held in isolation for at least a week.
13 dogs were rescued from a house on Ewers in southwest Detroit. The three most emaciated dogs were taken to the VCA in St. Clair Shores. They are being held in isolation for at least a week and being treated and screened for diseases.
Wednesday, May 22 2013 1:44 PM EDT2013-05-22 17:44:18 GMT
Today at 2 p.m. 100 community leaders, union officials, concerned residents and Northwestern High School Alumni will protest the closure of the high school.
Today at 2 p.m. 100 community leaders, union officials, concerned residents and Northwestern High School Alumni will protest the closure of the high school.
Wednesday, May 22 2013 1:36 PM EDT2013-05-22 17:36:39 GMT
Innuendo, sexual advances and an overnight stay in Lansing -- a politician's former aide claims he had to endure a nightmare on the job. Now a sexual harassment lawsuit has been filed against Rep. Brian Banks.
Innuendo, sexual advances and an overnight stay in Lansing -- a politician's former aide claims he had to endure a nightmare on the job. Now a sexual harassment lawsuit has been filed against Rep. Brian Banks.