An Oakville handyman has been charged with 23 counts of fraud stemming from scams he perpetrated on Burlington and Oakville residents.
Officers allege that Elwood Bowler, 54, initially offered services to repair eaves troughs, cut down trees and other home maintenance, but never started the work he’d been paid to do and he never registered a business or acquired insurance.
After initial charges were laid against Bowler, investigators reached out to Burlington residents who believe they are linked to the scam. From these tips that officers followed up on, Bowler is now facing 12 counts of fraud under $5,000 and one charge of fraud over $5,000.
Halton police are cautioning the public not to engage in door-to-door sales activities and to seek out products and services from reputable licenced companies themselves.
He was released with a pending court date.
One resource for the public is Consumer Protection Ontario. You can research complaint reports on companies and individuals who may be trying to sell you a product or service you may not necessarily need at your door. Don’t be a victim of high pressure sales tactics, say police.
Read the full story over inhalton.
