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Sheriff's Office warns of 'Gypsy' activity in the region

By Howard B. Owens

If you see any gypsies in the area, they may be doing more than playing a little music, warns local law enforcement officials.

A release from the Genesee County Sheriff's office, written by Chief Jerome Brewester, warns of "'Traveler' or 'Gypsy' activity" may be hitting the area, even though there are no formal complaints.

"Of particular importance is the fact that these scam artists usually prey upon the elderly and we ask that everyone assist in protecting your elderly neighbors," Brewster wrote.

Brewster passed along an information sheet of things to look for from the National Association of Bunco Investigators.

Some warning signs:

  • The repair person drives an unmarked truck or van with out-of-state plates
  • The worker has no business identification
  • You are offered a "special price" if you  sign today
  • The worker wants upfront costs or fees or accepts cash only
  • No written estimates or contracts
  • The worker has no references
  • The offer "sounds too good to be true"

Residents who spot suspicious activity are asked to contact local law enforcement.

Bea McManis

We were just talking about gypsy camps the other day. I can remember my father pointing to a field at the end of State St, just past the airport and telling us that he could remember gypsies camping there when he was a boy.
I guess they have evolved into more modern equipment and scams since then.

Aug 6, 2009, 1:43pm Permalink
Susan Kennelly

"Of particular importance is the fact that these scam artists usually prey upon the elderly and we ask that everyone assist in protecting your elderly neighbors,"

Hey Mom.... Don't talk to strangers! LOL

Aug 6, 2009, 1:58pm Permalink
Gabor Deutsch

Traveling caravans of baggavons, All Gypsys are not bad, some of them ruin it for the other real Gypsys ! A scam is a scam no matter who does it or if it is organised. I knew of a caravan of gypsys called "rainbow people" that set up in the woods close to alleghany PA/NY border. They were beggars and entertainers not theives.

Aug 6, 2009, 2:29pm Permalink
Doug Yeomans

Wow Sean..that brings back memories. I remember seeing sonny and Cher at the state fair many, many years ago. I climbed a tree there when I was a kid and watched them on stage.

Aug 6, 2009, 4:15pm Permalink
Beth Kinsley

I used to love watching Sonny and Cher. I'll never forget when they announced they were getting divorced on their show. And that beautiful little girl Chastity - who is now on her way to becoming a man.... How things have changed.

Aug 6, 2009, 5:00pm Permalink
Linda LaPorte

Everyone, Some more important advice to pass along to seniors, your moms...actually to all ladies in general...please, please do not leave your purses/wallets in carts while shopping...they can so easily be stolen.

Aug 7, 2009, 10:56am Permalink

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