Handyman helped himself in house, say Berkeley Township police

Items disappearing from an elderly Berkeley Townshp couple's home lead township investigators to a nearby resident who acted as a handyman for them.

Daniel Greco, 52, was apprehended Wednesday at his Holiday City house, according to police who began looking into the alleged thefts less than two weeks earlier.

The Holiday City couple didn't notice at first, police said, but missing items became increasingly apparent over a span of months.

Authorities believe that, as they increasingly trusted him with daily chores, Greco pocketed items while in the house and fenced them for cash.

Eventually, jewelry and prescription medications were taken, according to investigators who also allege credit card fraud.

Greco was remanded to the Ocean County Jail in lieu of $5,000 bail. Police said that more charges might be lodged before the probe is closed.

Police urge residents to verify identifications and documentation of solicitors, contractors, and household help with access to their homes, adding that each must be registered with the township, and often with the state of New Jersey.

Berkeley Township residents can report instances, or suspicions, of contractor fraud or senior fraud to township police. Information can be left anonymously at 732-341-1133, extension 611.

Charges are accusations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless, and until, found guilty in a court of law.