NJ Homeowner Pepper-Sprayed by Fake Technician: Police Detail Terrifying Service Scam—Your Family Could Be Next
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ – A disturbing incident in Bergen County has brought a critical safety issue into sharp focus: criminals are posing as service and utility workers to gain entry to your home.
Upper Saddle River Police, with assistance from the FBI New York Violent Crime Task Force and the NYPD, have arrested a Flushing, Queens, man following an alleged assault on a homeowner who had requested an air duct cleaning service.
The Anatomy of a Service Scam & Assault
The alleged attack took place in August 2025 at a northwestern Bergen County residence. The victim had submitted an online request for an air duct cleaning service.
- The Deception: The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Or Peretz, arrived posing as a technician named “Sean.”
- The Confrontation: A dispute reportedly erupted over the quality of the service and the equipment being used.
- The Assault: Police state that Peretz then allegedly used pepper spray on the homeowner before fleeing the scene.
After a two-month investigation, charges were announced on October 10th, including: possession of a weapon for unlawful purpose, endangering an injured victim, criminal attempt-theft by deception, impersonation, and simple assault.
A Growing Threat: Fake Workers Are NOT Just Robbers
This case highlights a trend far more dangerous than simple theft. Authorities across the country have issued warnings about criminals using similar tactics for both robbery and assault.
- In 2024, New Jersey and Michigan authorities warned residents about these schemes.
- Tragically, a fatal home invasion in Michigan in October 2024 involved two men posing as utility workers to gain entry, resulting in the murder of a 72-year-old man.
These criminals are sophisticated, often using plausible stories like “checking a gas leak” or “inspecting a meter” to manipulate you into opening your door or leaving your valuables unsupervised.
Protect Your Home: Essential Safety Checklist from Police
Law enforcement officials urge all residents—especially in affluent communities like Upper Saddle River—to implement a strict verification process. Your safety depends on it.
Don’t be fooled by a uniform or a convincing story. The cost of a few minutes of verification is worth the peace of mind—and your safety.
Join the new Saddle River Valley, Ramapo and Pascack Valley Communities Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1931704860512551/
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I wonder if there’s more to the story. I know many people in a river and some of them could be real assholes. I wish there was surveillance on this.