Posted Wednesday, May 18, 2011 --- 10:10 a.m.

From Rock County Cooperative:

JANESVILLE—Rock Energy Cooperative is warning members about a thief in the area posing as a utility worker to gain access to people’s homes and then stealing valuables.

A couple in the Clinton area was outside doing yard work when an unmarked truck stopped in front of their house. A man in the truck told the couple that he was from the utility company and needed to go inside the house to change out a transformer. The couple continued working outside while the man went inside. Later, the couple discovered that valuables had been stolen and called the police.

Rock Energy line crews always travel in trucks with the co‐op logo prominently displayed on the sides. Crews also carry IDs that they will gladly show when asked.

To avoid being a crime victim, follow these steps if a utility worker comes to your house:

- Ask to see a photo ID showing that the worker is employed by the utility.
- Look for a utility logo on the truck.
- Call your utility company to verify the person’s identification. For Rock Energy, call (866) 752‐4550 and our office staff will be able to tell you if a worker has been dispatched to your neighborhood.
- If you suspect that the person is an impostor, call the police immediately.