Beware of the “Rose Ruse” Burglaries in Fairfax, Virginia

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Warning: Beware of the “Rose Ruse” Burglaries in Fairfax, Virginia!

Imagine a seemingly innocent encounter at your front door – a woman offering to sell you roses. It may sound harmless, but in Fairfax, Virginia, this has become a clever ploy used by burglars to gain access to people’s homes. The Fairfax County Police Department is investigating a series of five similar incidents that began on December 28th, 2023.

A Deceptive Scheme

In each case, a woman approaches the targeted home with a bouquet of roses and knocks on the door. If no one answers, she quickly retreats to an awaiting vehicle. However, this is just the beginning of a well-orchestrated plan. Two men then force their way into the home, taking advantage of the homeowner’s absence, and swiftly make off with valuable possessions.

This cunning strategy has left victims devastated and authorities determined to catch the culprits.

Woman holding roses at a front door in Fairfax County

Fairfax police are investigating five similar incidents that began on Dec. 28, in which burglars break into a home while a woman pretends to sell roses at the front door. (Fairfax County PD)

Masked Thieves and Disguised Cameras

To make matters worse, the burglars go to great lengths to conceal their identities. They wear masks, making it difficult for witnesses to provide accurate descriptions. Additionally, they tamper with home surveillance cameras, ensuring that their actions remain hidden from view.

Woman holding roses rings a doorbell at a home in Fairfax County, Vriginia

The suspects also attempted to hide their identities by wearing masks and obscuring home surveillance cameras, police said. (Fairfax County PD)

Targeted Locations

The targeted locations include Farm Road in Great Falls, Lance Lane in Oakton, Windrock Drive and Dominion Reserve Drive in McLean, and Bishopgate Way in Reston. These incidents have left residents feeling violated and concerned for their safety.

Stay Vigilant and Report Suspicious Activity

The Fairfax County Police Department is urging residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity. If you encounter a woman attempting to sell flowers at your door, please contact detectives at 703-556-7750. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Solvers at 703-246-4676 or online.

Don’t let the “Rose Ruse” catch you off guard. Stay alert, protect your home, and help bring these criminals to justice.