Posted:
Police have charged a man for defrauding seniors through a renovation and repair scam.
Between July 8 and August 18, 2025, officers responded to four reports of a man approaching seniors at their homes and offering to complete small renovation or repair jobs. The suspect collects a deposit but does not return to complete the service. In some instances, the suspect asked victims for additional cash advances to cover materials and permits. The suspect also provided fraudulent receipts that were signed with a false name.
On September 15, officers arrested James Robert Dwyer, 65, without incident.
Dwyer appeared in Halifax provincial court on September 16 to face charges of:
- Fraud under $5000.00 (x4)
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000.00 (x4)
- Mislead police by diverting suspicion
- Fraudulent or misleading receipt
Dwyer has been convicted of similar crimes in Newfoundland.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone who has been a victim of fraud can report it by contacting police at 902-490-5020. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling toll-free 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca or using the P3 Tips App.
You can report a fraud where you haven’t been a victim to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, or call 1-888-495-8501.
More information and fraud prevention tips are available at:
-30-
25-97151, 25-98191, 25-113344 and 25-118751
