Police Warn Residents after Small String of Burglaries in Mascoutah

By Editor | June 15, 2026 |

MASCOUTAH — The Mascoutah Police Department is warning residents to remain vigilant after an increase in residential burglaries reported over the past several months.

In a social media post Friday, June 12, police said suspects have been going door-to-door offering services such as power washing or tree trimming. According to the department, some suspects have gained entry into homes by asking to use the restroom or for other reasons, and burglaries have occurred once inside.

Police are urging residents to ask to see a City of Mascoutah solicitor’s permit before discussing services with anyone going door-to-door.

“If they do not have a permit, do not agree to services or exchange money,” the department stated. Police also advised residents not to allow workers inside their homes unless they are personally known to them and to report suspicious activity immediately.

One Mascoutah resident said she recently fell victim to a theft involving individuals offering services.

The woman, who asked not to be identified, said a man initially approached her about power washing her home.

“Well, I had a gentleman that came here and wanted to look at the car first,” she said. “He wanted to power wash the house, and I just didn’t have the funds for that.”

She said the man also expressed interest in purchasing her Chevrolet Malibu, which was not running.

While she was distracted, speaking with the man interested in the car, she said another individual entered the home and stole personal belongings.

“His buddy ran in and grabbed what he wanted,” she said. “I didn’t have much. Just my purse, and I had a little crochet bag. Then they took all that stuff and some costume jewelry I had in my jewelry box.”

She said she does not know whether any suspects have been identified and was unable to provide details about the vehicle involved.

Asked what advice she had for other residents, she offered a simple warning: “Just be wary.”

Police encouraged anyone who believes they may have been victimized under similar circumstances to contact the department. Residents should call 911 in an emergency or contact the department’s 24-hour dispatch line at 618-825-2051 for non-emergency situations.

“If you see something, say something,” the department wrote. “Working together helps keep our community safe.”