Police: Suspect Without Front Teeth Impersonating DTE Energy Worker In Monroe County

MONROE (WWJ) - Police are warning residents about a suspect who is going door to door impersonating a DTE Energy utility worker in Monroe County.

Sheriff Dale Malone says his office has received at least three reports about the suspect in just two days.

The first incident happened Thursday in the 7000 block of Dunbar Avenue, near Sterns and Douglas roads, in Bedford Township. The second and third incidents happened Friday -- in the 6700 block of S. Custer Road in Raisinville Township, and in the 500 block of Bellestri Drive, just north of S. Custer Road, in Monroe Township.

Police say the suspect appears to be specifically targeting the homes of senior citizens. In all three instances, the suspect knocked on the door and identified himself as a DTE Energy employee.

"The subject told the homeowner that DTE was going to be replacing the utility lines in front of his residence," Malone said in a statement. "The subject told the homeowner that he needed to enter the home to check the electrical systems inside to make sure everything would be compatible with the new wires."

The suspect is described as a white male in his 30's with facial hair and no front teeth. He might be driving a gray or silver SUV-type vehicle.

By law, utility workers who request to enter a home should always have a picture ID and proper credentials. If the worker does not have the proper credentials, do not let them into your home and immediately call police.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Monroe County Sheriff's Office at 734-243-7070.