Verifying Credentials

Discovering that workers you trusted with your property and keys have been stealing from you, and are in fact con artists, is a deeply unsettling and distressing experience. Here’s how to handle the situation and protect yourself going forward:

1. Ensure Your Immediate Safety:

Change Locks Immediately: As soon as you realize what’s happened, change the locks on your home. Even if you suspect the workers still have copies of the keys, changing the locks will prevent them from accessing your property again.
Secure All Access Points: Check all doors, windows, and any other entry points to your home. Make sure everything is secure and consider installing additional security measures, like deadbolts or security bars, especially on ground-level windows.

2. Document the Situation:

Inventory Your Belongings: Make a detailed list of any missing items, including descriptions, estimated values, and, if possible, photos. This will be essential for reporting the theft to the police and for any insurance claims.
Gather Evidence: If you have any evidence of the workers’ involvement, such as suspicious behavior, messages, or the fact that they had access to certain areas where items are missing, document it. This could include photographs, security footage, or witness statements from neighbors.

3. Report the Theft to the Police:

File a Police Report: Contact your local police department and file a report. Provide them with the list of missing items, any evidence you’ve gathered, and detailed descriptions of the workers. The police will investigate, and having a formal report is crucial for legal proceedings and insurance purposes.
Cooperate Fully: Be prepared to answer questions and provide any additional information the police may need. The more detailed your report, the better chance they have of recovering your property and catching the thieves.

4. Notify Neighbors and Community:

Alert Your Neighbors: Inform your neighbors about the situation so they can be on the lookout and take precautions. They may have also been targeted, and their information could help the police.
Community Watch Programs: If you live in a community with a neighborhood watch or similar program, notify them as well. They can help spread the word and increase vigilance in the area.

5. Check Your Insurance Policy:

Review Your Coverage: Check your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy to see if it covers theft. If it does, you can file a claim to recover some or all of the value of the stolen items.
File a Claim: Contact your insurance company to start the claims process. Provide them with the police report number, your inventory of stolen items, and any other required documentation.

6. Investigate the Workers:

Background Check: If you didn’t do so before, now is the time to run a background check on the workers, if possible. This can help you confirm their criminal history and provide more information to the authorities.
Company Reputation: If the workers were employed by a company, research the company’s reputation. Check for reviews, complaints, or any red flags. Report the company to the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or a relevant regulatory agency if you find evidence of wrongdoing.

7. Legal Actions and Protections:

Consult a Lawyer: Depending on the severity of the theft and the value of the stolen items, it might be wise to consult with a lawyer. They can advise you on potential legal actions, such as suing the workers or their employer for damages.
Issue a Cease and Desist: If the workers continue to harass or threaten you after you’ve discovered their theft, a lawyer can help you issue a cease and desist letter or take further legal action to protect yourself.

8. Enhance Your Home Security:

Install Security Cameras: Consider installing security cameras around your property. This not only acts as a deterrent but also provides evidence if something happens in the future.
Alarm Systems: Invest in a reliable alarm system that alerts you and the authorities if there is an unauthorized entry.
Smart Home Devices: Consider smart home devices that allow you to monitor your property remotely, such as doorbell cameras or smart locks.

9. Psychological and Emotional Support:

Counseling: Discovering that you’ve been betrayed by people you trusted can be emotionally devastating. Consider talking to a counselor or therapist to help process your feelings of violation, anger, or fear.
Support Networks: Lean on friends, family, or support groups who can offer understanding and advice during this difficult time. Sharing your experience with others who have gone through similar situations can be comforting.

10. Learn from the Experience:

Vetting Process: In the future, ensure a more rigorous vetting process when hiring workers. This could include checking references, running background checks, and verifying their credentials.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off about someone, trust your gut. Don’t hesitate to take action, even if it’s just asking more questions or seeking a second opinion.
Regular Check-Ins: If you hire someone who has access to your home or property, do regular check-ins on their work and your belongings. This helps you catch anything suspicious early on.

Final Thoughts

Finding out that you’ve been deceived and stolen from by people you trusted is a harsh and painful experience. However, by taking immediate steps to secure your property, reporting the theft, and seeking legal and emotional support, you can regain control of the situation. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you navigate this challenging time.

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