Elderly Man Loses $18,000 In Home Improvement Scam In Stratford

Saturday, 10 August 2019 at 07:04

The unknown man returned on several occasions and more money was provided to him without any work being done, before being chased away by the homeowner. He is described as being in his late 20’s, approximately five feet, nine inches tall, with short brown hair and a Scottish accent.

STRATFORD - The Stratford police are investigating a home improvement scam after they received a complaint from a 78-year-old man who lost $18,000.

Police received the complaint on Wednesday after learning an unknown man had attended the 78-year old’s home and offered to repair his driveway.

The elderly man lives in the east end of the city and gave him cash, under the belief that he would return to finish the work. The unknown man returned on several occasions and more money was provided to him without any work being done until on Monday, when the homeowner realized what was happening and he chased him away.

The man's identity remains unknown as no name was ever given and no contract, or any type of paperwork, was ever exchanged.

He is described as being in his late 20’s, approximately five feet, nine inches tall, with short brown hair and a Scottish accent.

There is no vehicle connected with the man as he was always seen coming and going on foot.

This event acts as a reminder to everyone in the community as to how quickly and easily money can be lost as a result of a fraud.

It is important to remember that legitimate businesses will not typically ask for payment up front for work and the Stratford police would like to remind everyone of the importance to not get involved in a cash deal, specifically with someone you do not know.

It is always important to obtain proper credentials and identification from anyone you are considering to do home improvements. And, as with all frauds and scams, if it sounds too good to be true, it likely is.

If anyone in the community has any information on the identity of this man, please contact the Stratford Police at 519-271-4141. If you wish to remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.