Suspects pose as police, invade Worcester home

WORCESTER, Mass. -- A warning went out to people in Worcester after criminals impersonated police officers during home invasion last week.

Worcester police said two mask-wearing intruders burst into a house on Randall Street around 8:30 Friday morning.

“They heard loud knocking,” said Sgt. Kerry Hazelhurst of the Worcester Police Department. “Before they knew it, there were two people entering the kitchen. They were yelling that they were the police and to get on the ground. They ordered two occupants on the ground - one had a gun - and held the two on the ground at gunpoint while the other person ransacked the home. They were there for a few minutes and they both ended up fleeing the home without taking anything of value.”

Police said the intruders were not wearing uniforms or badges, however they said one of them did have on a reflective vest.

One woman, who didn't want to be identified, said she was inside the home during the invasion. She  said it was a terrifying experience. Neighbors said they too were rattled by the experience. Police said they are concerned about their safety as well.

Police added that there were two similar home invasions in Worcester in November when the intruders claimed to be police.

Authorities said that is a disturbing trend.

“It increases the risk for our officers that conduct legitimate raids into homes. The people that are being raided might feel that this could be a fake raid and this could be robbing them instead and they might feel to retaliate,” said Hazelhurst.

Police said they are still investigating to determine a motive and whether the invasions are connected.

“That’s really very scary,” said Cecila Adu-Gyamfi, a neighbor. “Because it’s a very quiet neighborhood.”

“I’m shocked,” said Ted Treinor. “This is a fairly quiet neighborhood. A lot of older people live on this street. Like I said it’s fairly quiet.”

Police urge anyone with information to contact the Worcester Police Department.

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