Posted:
Police have laid additional charges against a man accused of defrauding seniors through a renovation and repair scam.
Throughout the summer, a man has been approaching seniors at their homes and offering to complete small renovation or repair jobs. The man is described as white, with a bald head, crooked teeth and clean shaven. He speaks with a Newfoundland accent and has used several false names, including John Andrews, John, Robert Squires, Andrews and Bob Andrews. He collects a deposit but does not return to complete the service.
On September 15, police arrested and charged James Robert Dwyer, 65, with:
- Fraud under $5000.00 (x4)
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000.00 (x4)
- Mislead police by diverting suspicion
- Fraudulent or misleading receipt
Since that time, more victims have been identified and further charges have been laid.
On September 23 Dwyer was charged with:
- Fraud under $5000.00 (x11)
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000.00 (x11)
Dwyer appeared in Halifax provincial court on September 24 to face the additional charges.
The investigation is ongoing.
Police advise the public to be wary of contractors who go door-to-door to solicit business. Always verify a contractor’s credentials before entering into a service agreement and avoid paying for services upfront, where possible.
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.
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25-137856, 25-137857, 25-137858, 25-137859, 25-137860, 25-137861, 25-137862, 25-137863,
25-137864, 25-137865 and 25-137866