A recent larceny in the Highway 158 area of Roanoke Rapids is related to a scam involving people who claim they work for the government.

The larceny, which occurred nearly two weeks ago, resulted in money being stolen from the victims.

Lieutenant Bobby Martin of the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office said the suspects, two white males, gained entry by telling the victims they were looking for odd jobs, while one advised them he works for the government and can help them save on utility bills.

They give no identification. “They do measurements as a distraction. A lot of folks being trusting of the government, they may take their eyes off them while they steal money, pocketbooks, wallets, anything that can be concealed,” Martin said this morning.

Martin said in a news release the suspects then work their way through the victims’ home, making it look very convincing that they are really trying to help you when in fact they are going to steal from you. The other male suspects distract you while his partner helps himself to your belongings or money.

The two suspects in this case are said to be driving a green, scratched Chevrolet Camaro, which would rarely be used as a government vehicle.

A second giveaway is when they first say they are looking for odd jobs and then mention they work for the government but do not name an agency.

The first thing to do is ask for identification and to ask what agency they are with and to be aware of the vehicle they are driving. “If you have anyone fitting this description come to your home trying to tell you that they are looking for odd jobs and that they are with the government, be leery of them and ask for government Identification and if necessary contact law enforcement.”

Martin said this is not the first report of this type of scam. While the vehicles vary, the method of operation is the same.