Seaford conmen: dodgy Irish tradesmen target vulnerable residents
Police fear a gang of conmen targeting vulnerable Seaford residents will strike again. They have released an image of a suspect, and the warning signs of bogus tradies.
South East
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Police fear a gang of conmen posing as dodgy tradesmen targeting vulnerable Seaford residents could strike again.
The crew of conmen, made up of what witnesses have described as caucasian men with Irish accents, have been letter dropping Seaford homes offering heavily discounted services.
The spelling error riddled pamphlet claims to be from a company called “First Choice Home Solutions”.
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The company offers free quotes for a range of services including gutter cleaning and carpentry.
The bogus tradies request part or full payment upfront but vanish with their victim’s hard earned cash.
A Seaford woman was the gang’s latest victim when she handed over $29,000 for a job which was never started.
Frankston Crime Investigation Unit detective Senior Constable Kerryn Merrett said police were hunting the gang but warned residents to be vigilant.
“Police urge members of the community to check credentials of tradesmen, especially if their approach, or offer of services, has been unsolicited,” she said.
“Don’t feel pressured to hand over cash or take a ‘today only deal’.
“Ask for written quotes and make sure you obtain details about who you’ve spoken with.
“These scams can be very convincing and involve multiple people.
“Seek second opinions, or a range of quotes and make sure you feel comfortable before you parting with your money.
“It is disappointing that people in our community are being taken advantage of in their homes where they should feel the safest,” she said.
Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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