Columbus Police Warn of 'Distraction Burglary' Ring Using Fake Tree Services

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Division of Police has issued a public warning regarding a sophisticated distraction burglary operation targeting residential neighborhoods. Investigators are actively seeking information on several suspects who have been posing as tree removal professionals to gain access to homes.

According to detectives, the suspects' modus operandi involves approaching homeowners—often elderly residents—and claiming they need to discuss tree trimming or removal on the property line. While one suspect leads the homeowner to the backyard to look at the trees, accomplices slip inside the unattended front door to steal cash, jewelry, and other valuable items.

Police have released descriptions of the suspects and vehicles associated with the distraction thefts. Residents are advised to never let unidentified individuals onto their property, to verify the credentials of any unscheduled utility or service workers, and to keep their doors locked even when they are working in their yards.