(Madison County, NY – Jan. 9, 2016) Madison County Sheriff’s Investigators have investigated a rash of reports of suspicious activity in the Madison County Towns of Fenner, Nelson and Cazenovia recently.
A majority of the reported incidents took place during the daytime hours, and were consistent with the reporting of two males driving an SUV-type vehicle. One male would approach the residence and offer an air freshener free of charge, with a request to demonstrate something else that may be of interest. All parties refused. An investigation commenced and the Sheriff directed additional patrols to focus on the areas where the reports were originating.
Sheriff’s Investigators were able to obtain a license plate number from the alleged suspicious vehicle, located and interviewed the owner. The interview determined that the male is a salesperson for a brand of vacuum cleaner. That person has been instructed to adhere to local town requirements for proper permits to conduct door to door sales.
Madison County Sheriff’s Deputies and Investigators are continuing to investigate other reports of two males approaching residences, offering great deals on meat and seafood.
Social media reports of a burglary taking place where an alleged suspect used pepper spray are erroneous, determined to be rumors.
Sheriff Allen Riley is asking the public to be vigilant to any suspicious activity and to be attentive to securing homes and businesses, at all times, including the use of door and window locks, alarm systems activated (if installed), securing of valuables in a locked safe or off premise in a safety deposit box at your local financial institution.
“Trust your feeling,” said Riley: “If you see suspicious activity, report it to your local law enforcement agency immediately by dialing 911.”