Upper Moreland Residents Help Confirm Licensed Solicitors

According to Upper Moreland Police in a Nixle report, July 10, the police department received several calls from residents reporting suspicious person in the area of 3900 Countrywood, Church and Fern roads in Willow Grove.

The report described suspicious persons telling residents that they are selling alternative energy sources. After police investigation, Upper Moreland Police found that the solicitors are licensed.

"As you probably know, this type of activity is commonly used as a ruse for burglars. We like to check out anyone who is soliciting or going door-to-door to make sure that they are legitimate," Thomas Nestel, UMPD chief, said in the report. "Thank you for the calls reporting this activity. Your swift reporting enabled us to respond quickly and meet these individuals. Keep up the good work being our partners in preventing crime!"

Upper Moreland Township requires those interested in soliciting door-to-door, must first check-in with the township or UMPD. The solicitor would pay a fee of $100 for a four-month limit, as well as undergo a background check.

According to a from the April 11, 2011 Finance and Administration committee meeting, those in violation of the township's solicitation ordinance could face fines of at least $300.

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In a related matter, UMPD also reported a suspicious person's activity on July 10. For more on that story, click here.

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