MANATEE COUNTY — A man and woman posing as pest exterminators targeted a Bayshore condominium complex on Wednesday afternoon, stealing jewelry and valuables from several residents, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said.

The victims at the Fourth Bayshore Condominium, near State College of Florida, included two 95-year-old women. Five residences were affected by the fraud, according to a condo board member. Jewelry reported stolen included a diamond heirloom necklace, a gold and diamond necklace, and gold wedding rings,

Sheriff's Office spokesman Randy Warren said deputies were gathering details on the suspects and additional information from neighbors.

"Deputies are working on some leads now," Warren said on Thursday. "We are reminding residents to never allow an unknown vendor into your home if you don’t have an appointment with them. When in doubt, call law enforcement."

According to the Sheriff's Office, the suspects were wearing bright yellow uniforms with black trim. The male suspect was described as approximately 5-foot-10, thin, possibly Hispanic, with long curly black hair and a mustache. The female suspect's uniform said "trainee" and she was wearing a protective mask.

The Manatee County Sheriff's Office Operations Center.


Anyone with information can contact the Sheriff's Office at 941-747-3011 (ext. 2260) or Manatee County Crime Stoppers at 866-634-TIPS) or www.manateecrimestoppers.com