STATESBORO, GA (WTOC) -
B.E. Newman has called his part of Bulloch County "home" for more than 60 years. Not even World War II combat in Italy could prepare him for the smooth-talking intruder he found in his home.
"I heard a racket and I walked around the corner from the kitchen. He was in the house," the 89 year old exclaimed.
The unidentified man claimed to be a county employee helping senior citizens get insulation to lower their power bills. The man talked and barreled his way back to Newman's bedroom, complete with a measuring tape.
"He said 'take the end of this and go in there I want to measure this room there.' I said 'The best thing you can do is get out of here.' But he wouldn't take no for an answer," he noted.
The man asked for, and got, Newman's wallet to check his ID, and grabbed the cash from it and ran outside to a waiting car and cohort.
"He cleaned us out," the great-grandfather said. "That sucker stole the money and I didn't have enough for a Coca-Cola left."
Bulloch County sheriff's investigators said they've received at least one similar complaint from a senior in the neighborhood. Investigator Jared Akins offered a few simple steps to prevent more seniors from being a victim of the same crooks or others using a similar ploy. The plan starts with keeping doors locked and little or no cash at home.
"Also, if it's someone presenting themselves in an official capacity or a county employee, they should have a county vehicle that is clearly marked also a county ID. Ask to see those things, it's not a problem," Akins stated.
Finally, if someone seems suspicious or refuses to offer identification, call 911. Meanwhile, the veteran who watched Mussolini's execution first hand has a message for his crooks.
"I may be doing it wrong. But I've got something over here side me the next time, if there's a next time, he'll go. All I've got to do is reach in there and get it." he assured.
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