In recent days, two Putnam County folks have reported being approached by a man who claimed he was a New York State Electric & Gas employee.
Investigators from the are looking into the incidents, as they say an impostor is behind the matter. He allegedly approached one of the complainants by phone, and the other in person. Neither allowed the man to enter.
Both reports came out of Putnam Valley, where residents first reached out to Town Supervisor Robert Tendy. He contacted NYSEG and asked if the company's employees would be looking to gain entrance to customers' homes. The latter confirmed that doing so is against policy.
"Although no other crime occurred, Sheriff [Donald B.] Smith is alerting NYSEG customers of this suspicious activity and advising the public that by all indications, those initiating these contacts arimpostorsrs and should not be allowed access into residences," the release states.
Smith stressed that impostors often have criminal motives, and that folks who are approached by a "suspicious" solicitor or worker should deny the person entry and then verify his or her authenticity.
"Naturally, if you are still in doubt, call the Sheriff’s Office at (845) 225-4300 or your local police,” Smith says in the release.
Officials are asking anyone with information regarding the alleged NYSEG impostor to call 845-225-8060. Calls will be kept confidential.
