Bogus builder fleeced man for £7,000
Crime Reporter A BOGUS builder turned a £15 job into a £7,000 nightmare for an elderly man from Newcastle.
The conman, claiming to be from a roofing firm, turned up on the doorstep of a 73-year-old from Gosforth and offered to clear his gutters for £15.
He then claimed he could see some structural damage to the property and asked for more cash twice over the next week.
The man then removed concrete and plaster from the house, causing substantial damage.
The elderly resident handed over £7,000 in cash and the man claiming to be a roofer has not been seen since.
Now police are warning residents to be wary of callers.
Acting Insp Rob Bosson said: “Callers who turn up unannounced, whether they’re claiming to be carrying out work or selling something, should always be treated with caution. It’s a reminder for people to be vigilant. Never agree to work being done by people who cold call at your home and always check identities of workmen and the company’s credentials before agreeing to work being carried out.
“Genuine callers will not mind being asked to come back at a different time so their identification can be checked or while arrangements are made for a relative or friend to be present when they return.
“We would also like to ask members of the community to look out for elderly or vulnerable neighbours who could be victims of this type of crime and report any suspicious people or vehicles they see in their community to police.
“If in doubt, contact officers.”
The incident happened on July 21.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 101, quoting reference 829 29/07/16, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.