A New York City couple returned from vacation to find their apartment occupied by a woman who had used a false pretext to gain entry. Bill and Yelim Kim reported that a woman told their doorman she was scheduled to walk their dog, thereby obtaining spare keys.
While on vacation, the Kims received a notification from their security camera on July 24, showing an unidentified woman inside their apartment. Bill Kim expressed his shock and concern, questioning what might have occurred had the intrusion gone undetected. The couple stated they had not authorized any dog walker or guest access during their absence.
The incident disrupted the Kims' vacation. After realizing the situation, they contacted the police and a friend who visited the apartment. This friend reportedly encountered the woman, who was allegedly fumbling with keys, and convinced her to leave. Police arrived at the apartment later that night. They found the woman inside, along with a damaged bookshelf, which the Kims believe was broken when the woman removed their security camera.
Two days after her initial departure, the woman allegedly returned to the building, this time bypassing the lobby. According to reports, she was wearing the same clothing and a hospital bracelet, suggesting she may have come directly from a medical facility. The woman has not been arrested, and the NYPD has been contacted for comment.
The couple learned that the woman had allegedly pressured the doorman, telling him she needed to access the apartment for the dogs. In response to the incident, the building's management company terminated the doorman's employment. The company is also reviewing its security protocols and implementing enhancements.
Distressed by the experience, Yelim Kim described herself as traumatized. The ordeal has prompted the Kims to seek new housing before their lease renewal, as they no longer feel their apartment is a safe space.