Investigators with the Barrie Police Service Fraud Unit are warning residents after an elderly man was allegedly targeted in a roofing repair scam in Barrie.
Officers were called to a local bank on March 16th, after staff became concerned about an 84-year-old man attempting to withdraw a large sum of money for supposed roof repairs.
Investigators learned the senior had been at his home near Nelson Street and Codrington Street when he heard loud banging on the roof. Shortly afterward, two men dressed as contractors reportedly knocked on the door and offered to repair his chimney.
Police say the men claimed the chimney was damaged and allegedly threatened the victim by saying he could lose his home if he refused to pay for repairs. The contract provided to the man listed the company as Ontario Roof Repairs & Masonry.
Investigators are now working to identify those involved in the attempted fraud and are asking anyone with information to contact the Barrie Police Fraud Unit or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers.
Police are reminding residents to be cautious of unsolicited contractors, avoid making rushed payments under pressure and seek a second opinion before agreeing to expensive home repairs.
