CHESTERFIELD, Va. (WTVR)—A recent home invasion was a targeted, organized robbery, police said.
The violent attack happened early Tuesday morning, July 30, on South Wedgemont Drive in a quiet Chesterfield neighborhood.
"They were finding items that they could go pawn or cash."
CBS 6 has concealed the victim’s identity.
"Common sense said ‘be smart.’ And that's when I opened the door and I said, whatever ya'll want just take it."
"It certainly appears that they were organized and had a plan,” said Lieutenant Randy Horowitz.
According to investigators, the victim was a target.
"One of the suspects had previous business encounters with the victim in this case. He had worked for a telecommunications company as a salesman,” said Lt. Horowitz.
Lieutenant Horowitz wouldn't tell us the name of the company because it's part of the current investigation.
He did say that 20-year-old Corey Hancock is one of two men now behind bars, and Hancock had previously been inside the victim's home.
"He's the one that knew where everything would be and he just instructed others in their part,” said Lt. Horowitz.
"It's just a very strange time. Our society has changed and we need to protect ourselves,” said Tom Gallagher, a spokesman for the Better Business Bureau. Gallagher suggests that you check out the contractor first before allowing them into your home.
"Many communities require a solicitation permit. You want to see a copy of that,” said Gallagher. “You want to see that they really do work for this company and that you call that company back and check it."
And Gallagher advises not to buy anything right away.
"If somebody's pressuring you to do something right now, don't do it,” said Gallagher.
Gallagher also said to stay away from anyone who tells you not to call their boss about a deal they’re giving you, or if they tell you it’s only offered to certain people. Chesterfield police said they are close to catching the two other suspects.
They said the county is seeing a slight increase in home invasions because in many cases the suspects know the victims.
