MADISON COUNTY, Ill. – The Madison County Sheriff’s Office is alerting residents about a resurfacing scam involving suspects posing as utility workers to gain access to people’s homes. Authorities fear the scam may be spreading beyond Madison County.

Several residents have reported a woman pretending to be an Ameren employee who lures homeowners outside under the guise of a utility issue. While she distracts them, a male suspect enters the home and steals valuables.

“These suspects are just preying on the people who actually trust people; they’re the lowest of the low,” says Madison County Sheriff Jeff Connor.

Deputies believe the same two individuals are responsible for multiple incidents across the county. The woman reportedly has an accent, and the male suspect is described as thin. They are believed to be traveling in a gray Jeep Compass or a white pickup truck equipped with ladders and storage bins – vehicles made to appear like legitimate utility work trucks.

Ameren Illinois issued a statement to FOX 2, saying in part:
“Ameren Illinois works closely with local and national law enforcement to monitor and report scammers and their ever-changing tactics targeting our customers.”

The company also reminded the public that all Ameren employees wear official uniforms, carry company identification, and drive clearly marked vehicles. If something feels off, customers are urged to call Ameren or their local police department immediately.

The sheriff’s department says after they posted about the scam on Facebook, they received a wave of similar reports from other residents.

Anyone who believes they’ve been targeted or has information about the suspects is encouraged to contact the Madison County Sheriff’s Office dispatch at (618) 692-4433.