Halifax Regional Police have laid multiple fraud charges against a Halifax-area contractor, Robert Allan Monk, age 50, who allegedly took money for work he never performed.
Monk, 50, agreed to home improvement jobs for a number of people between May 2020 and May 2021. Police said Monk asked for money upfront, usually via e-transfer.
Police alleged Monk would not perform the work clients paid for and once the clients approached Monk, he communicating with them.
Although none of the allegations has been tested in court, Monk faces:
- eight fraud charges,
- three charges of possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000,
- three charges of possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000,
- 10 charges of breaching probation
Using the name of a legitimate business
Dan Monk owns a company called Monk Renovations in Halifax. Although Dan and Robert have the same last name, Dan wants to make it clear his company is in no way affiliated with the accused.
The business owner, Dan, said he’s been aware of Robert Monk for about a year, and has been getting calls and messages for the last few months from alleged victims.
He alleged the accused told customers that he was affiliated with Monk Renovations “in order to boost his credibility.”
“It’s just disgusting to me,” said Dan Monk.
Dan shared advice for individuals looking to hire a reputable contractor:
- Get a written quote.
- Sign a contract.
- Look for someone who is incorporated and insured.
- Check their references.
Robert Monk is scheduled to appear in Halifax provincial court at a later date.
This article was originally sourced by www.cbc.ca.
