THE New Westminster Police Department is advising residents to remain alert after an observant and compassionate neighbour called police concerned her 90-year-old neighbour may be targeted by fraudsters.
On the evening of March 25, officers attended the senior’s residence to learn more about what occurred. The resident shared that two men were soliciting in the neighbourhood with an unmarked vehicle, and approached her about chimney cleaning and sealing services. The resident shared she was asked to pay a significant deposit upfront. Officers discouraged the resident to pay the $12,000 she had been asked for. The file is still under investigation.
“This neighbour is exactly the kind of person I would want living next to my grandparents,” said Constable Peter Jon. “This is the kind of community New Westminster is, where people look out for and help one another.”
The New Westminster Police Department encourages everyone to do their research when hiring anyone for repairs to your home. If you are approached by someone offering unsolicited repairs, do not feel pressured to make a decision. Take time to verify the business and speak with someone you trust.
There are several different kinds of scams surrounding chimney inspection and repair ranging from high pressure sales and fraudulent companies to fake claims of major structural damage discovered that requires thousands of dollars in immediate repairs. In many instances, scammers will ask for payment in cash.
If you believe you have been targeted by a fraud, contact the New Westminster Police Department at 604-525-5411.
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