Police believe the accused worked alone, targeted all areas of the city

Man charged after trio defrauded

A Hamilton man is facing several charges after two seniors and a vulnerable adult were defrauded of more than $50,000.

The Hamilton police crimes against seniors unit alleges the suspect befriended and methodically tricked his victims.

“He wined and dined them, buying them coffee before hitting them up for money,” said Detective Mike Page, adding the suspect would also go to their homes or approach them on the street.

Page believes there are more victims, and that the accused has been working the scam since March 2012.

Police believe the accused worked alone and targeted all areas of the city, including the Mountain and downtown.

Bernard Dale Abbott, 38, is charged with three counts of fraud over $5,000, three counts of fraud under $5,000, two counts of being in a dwelling unlawfully, and unlawful use of a credit card.

Police are urging anyone who believes they may be a victim to contact them at 905-540-5300.

Police also offer the following tips for avoiding this type of scam:

Do not give anyone the personal identification number of your debit card;

Do not rush into any agreements that involve property or money;

Take your time, ask questions and speak to a family member about any offers;

Report suspicious offers to police immediately, before the suspect finds other victims;

Never turn over cash to anyone, no matter how good the offer sounds.