Update:
In connection with the fraudulent scheme, the Toronto Police made an arrest, on October 3. Martin Thomas Quinn, 29, of Mississauga was arrested and charged with Fraud Over $5,000. He was scheduled to attend court on October 4.
Toronto (September 26, 2019) – Toronto police are warning seniors about three men who allegedly approached elderly homeowners with a fraudulent home repair scheme. The men were attempting to convince the seniors to pay for a list of home repairs, which are believed to have been unnecessary, furthermore no actual work was done. Two of the three men are described to have a heavy Scottish accent.
On September 24, the police were called to a suspicious incident in the Toronto, Bayview Ave and Blythwood Road area. One to three men were reported to be approaching elderly homeowners conducting – what is believed to be – a fraudulent scheme consisting of demanding cash for unnecessary home repairs.
In a press release published on Wednesday evening, the Toronto police issued a warning to the public against these men. They were posing as craftsmen and providing the seniors with a list of repairs that supposedly needed to be done, including price quotes. They suggested home renovations such as work to the roof, driveway, etc.
After allegedly starting the repairs, they came up with a list of more work required at a higher price. Despite their claims, it is believed that no actual work was either necessary nor actually completed, their victims paid them in cash. They even accompanied the seniors to a close-by ATMs to withdraw the money.
The three suspects are each described as white and 5’10”. One with short dark hair, medium build and another one as athletic build with fair skin, and blue-eyes. The two suspects described are supposed to have a heavy Scottish accent. The third suspect is described as in his late thirties, dark short hair and muscular build. The men may drive a white van or truck.
Police are encouraging people to be extra cautious if approached for unsolicited home repairs and to phone police to report any suspicious solicitation for home renovations.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5300, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.
