Toronto police are warning residents about a roofing scam after two suspects were arrested in North York. Two arrested persons are suspected to be involved in this fraud.
Officers took action after receiving reports of such fraud from Kill Street and Wilson Avenue around 11 a.m. on April 5. Through investigation, the police learned that a group of men went to a house and told the home owner that their roof and chimney needed urgent repairs. The suspects then climbed onto the roof of the house and removed the chimney without any permission. However, this work was not needed and was unnecessary.
Police arrested 40-year-old Stephen Smith and 23-year-old Barney Strokes in connection with the incident. Both have been charged with fraud. Police also released photos of the suspects on April 6. Because, they think there may be many more victims of this incident.
According to police, suspects in such scams go door-to-door, distributing flyers offering roofing, paving and fencing services on behalf of fraudulent or non-existent companies. These jobs are usually unfinished or of poor quality. The materials used are also of low quality.
Police have advised residents to exercise caution and not share any information with strangers. Usually the elderly and vulnerable are the targets of such scams. Suspects use sophisticated tactics in this work.
