MANSFIELD, Ohio — The Mansfield Police Department is warning the public about two creepy cases involving individuals claiming to work for Richland County Children Services and then trying to talk their way into a residents' homes.
According to Mansfield Police Chief Keith Porch, the most recent incident happened Tuesday afternoon around 4:20 p.m. in the 1700 block of Middle-Bellville Road.
Authorities say three people—two women and a man— told a resident that they need to come inside the home and talk with them about an "open case" with the agency.
The resident told police that the blue lanyards the three were wearing didn't look right, and when the resident questioned them about it, they said it "was the new look" of the agency.
After the resident turned the three people away, they left in a blue Toyota SUV.
Another incident happened on Oct. 11. near Sycamore and West 3rd streets.
Authorities said that a resident notified them about two women who tried to enter the home, claiming that they were with children services.
The women left the area when the resident questioned them about their identities.
Authorities said that they believe the incidents are related. RCCS has confirmed that no one from the agency has gone to those homes.
Police said that both women are white and appear to be in their 30s. One has long brown hair and glasses; the other has short blonde hair. The third person is described as an older white male wearing glasses, a red shirt and khakis.
A more detailed description wasn't available.
Police are asking any resident who encounters something similar to report it by calling Lt. Rob Skropits at 419-755-9755.
