Law enforcement has repeatedly advised residents who live in the city to lock their doors over recent months, but the same is true for folks who live in rural areas.

An elderly lady from north of Brownsdale told law enforcement last week that she saw a car in her driveway and then discovered a man in her kitchen, according to Mower County Chief Deputy Mark May.

The man reportedly asked if this was the Jenkins’ residence, the woman said no and then he left politely.

The woman described the 6-foot-1-inch to 6-foot-2-inch man as well-built with short black hair. He was wearing a ball cap. He had a short, black beard with gray speckles in it and was estimated to be about 35 to 45 years old, according to May.

No personal items were missing from the home. The lady’s friend reported the incident on Feb. 26.

May said this type of incident has happened previously in Mower and in other counties.

A person will knock on the door of a rural home. If someone answers, they usually give a false name, ask for someone and then leave. If no one answers the door, they go in and will take cash, because it’s not traceable, May said.

May said it’s best to call law enforcement if you see someone suspicious and to lock your doors.