Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton Scammed by Fake Cleaning Crew at D.C. Home
Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton Scammed by Fake Cleaning Crew at D.C. Home
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In a troubling incident that highlights the vulnerability of seniors to home service scams, Congressional Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton of Washington, D.C., was targeted by fraudulent individuals posing as HVAC cleaning crew members at her Southeast D.C. residence on Thursday. The 88-year-old longtime representative fell victim to a sophisticated scam that resulted in over $4,300 in fraudulent credit card charges.
The Incident: What Happened at Del. Norton's Home
On Thursday afternoon, just after 3:30 p.m., multiple individuals arrived at Delegate Norton's home on 9th Street SE, claiming to be HVAC workers ready to perform duct and fireplace cleaning services. Without an appointment scheduled, the suspects were granted entry into the congresswoman's residence.
The Financial Damage
According to police reports obtained by NBC Washington, the fraudulent crew charged exactly $4,362 to Delegate Norton's credit card for services that were never performed. The suspects accessed her credit card information while inside her home and processed the payment for supposed duct and fireplace cleaning work.
⚠️ Warning: This wasn't the first attempt. According to police reports, the same group had tried to solicit Norton twice earlier in 2025—once in August and once in September—and were turned away both times before succeeding on Thursday.
How the Scam Was Discovered
The fraud was uncovered when a house manager—identified by Norton's office as a longtime employee and friend—reviewed Ring doorbell footage after being notified about the unexpected visitors. The house manager, who was not present at Norton's residence at the time of the incident, immediately recognized that no such appointment had been scheduled and contacted authorities.
Delegate Norton's Response and Office Statement
In a statement to NBC4 Washington, Delegate Norton's office explained the circumstances that led to the unfortunate incident:
"The Congresswoman employs a house manager who oversees all maintenance services, so she initially assumed her staff had arranged the visit and provided her credit card for payment. Upon notifying her house manager, who reviewed Ring doorbell footage and confirmed that no such appointment had been scheduled, the incident was immediately reported to the police."
Addressing Health Concerns
A police field commissioner's report described Norton as having "early stages of dementia" and mentioned that she has a caretaker with power of attorney. However, Norton's office strongly disputed these characterizations, stating clearly: "Congresswoman Norton doesn't have a caretaker. A longtime employee and friend serves as the house manager, residing at a separate address."
Investigation Status and Law Enforcement Response
The Metropolitan Police Department and U.S. Capitol Police are actively investigating this incident as felony fraud. No arrests had been made as of Friday, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Security Concerns
According to sources speaking to Fox News, U.S. Capitol Police arrived at Norton's home following the incident to ensure her safety. A police car was positioned outside her residence "out of an abundance of caution" because the suspects reportedly indicated they were "adamant they were coming back."
The police report also noted that Norton's credit card information and driver's license number could potentially be compromised, raising additional security concerns beyond the immediate financial loss.
Who Reported the Crime
A separate public incident report identifies Jacqueline Pelt as the person who reported the crime to police. Pelt is described as a longtime friend and supporter of Norton's and was previously listed as her campaign treasurer. Norton's spokesperson confirmed that Pelt notified police but emphasized she is not Norton's caretaker.
How to Protect Yourself from Home Service Scams
This incident serves as a crucial reminder about home service scams targeting seniors and vulnerable individuals. Here are essential steps to protect yourself and your loved ones:
- Never accept unsolicited service visits – Legitimate companies don't show up unannounced
- Verify all appointments – Always confirm scheduled services with family members or house managers
- Check credentials – Request company identification, licenses, and verify information before allowing entry
- Install video doorbells – Security cameras can help monitor who approaches your home
- Never provide payment immediately – Legitimate services provide estimates and invoices before charging
- Keep a trusted contact list – Maintain phone numbers for verified service providers
- Report suspicious activity – Contact local police if anyone makes aggressive solicitation attempts
🛡️ Special Tip for Seniors and Caregivers
Establish a household policy where no service appointments are accepted without prior confirmation from a designated family member or house manager. This simple rule could prevent most home service scams.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Eleanor Holmes Norton Scam
When did the scam occur?
The scam took place on Thursday, October 24, 2025, just after 3:30 p.m. at Delegate Norton's Southeast D.C. home on 9th Street SE.
How much money was stolen?
The fraudulent crew charged exactly $4,362 to Delegate Norton's credit card for duct and fireplace cleaning services that were never performed.
Who is Eleanor Holmes Norton?
Eleanor Holmes Norton, 88, is the longtime nonvoting delegate representing Washington, D.C., in the U.S. House of Representatives. She has served in this position for decades and is a prominent civil rights advocate.
Has anyone been arrested?
No arrests had been made as of Friday. The case is being investigated as felony fraud by both the Metropolitan Police Department and U.S. Capitol Police.
Was this the first time these scammers targeted Norton?
No. According to the police field commissioner's report, the same group had attempted to solicit Norton twice earlier in 2025—once in August and once in September—but were turned away both times before succeeding on Thursday.
How was the scam discovered?
Norton's house manager reviewed Ring doorbell footage after being notified about unexpected visitors, confirmed no appointment had been scheduled, and immediately contacted police. The manager also discovered the unauthorized credit card charges.
🔔 Stay Vigilant Against Elder Fraud
Elder fraud costs Americans billions annually. Share this article with seniors in your life to help protect them from similar scams. Knowledge is the best defense against fraud.
Help Protect Your Community
If you found this article informative, please share it with friends, family, and neighbors to raise awareness about home service scams targeting seniors.
About Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton: Eleanor Holmes Norton has represented Washington, D.C., as a nonvoting delegate in the U.S. House of Representatives since 1991. At 88 years old, she is a prominent civil rights leader and advocate who has been at the forefront of D.C. statehood efforts and local governance issues. Despite recent controversies over her political future, Norton has maintained her commitment to serving the District of Columbia.
