Barrie Police are warning residents to remain vigilant after an attempted fraud involving a roofing repair company that targetted an elderly man and nearly cost him thousands of dollars.
Investigators with the Barrie Police Service Fraud Unit say the incident unfolded on March 16, when officers were called to a local financial institution over concerns about a suspicious transaction.
Police learned the situation involved an 84-year-old Barrie man who was attempting to withdraw a significant sum of money for what he believed were urgent chimney repairs at his home.
Concerned by the circumstances, staff at the financial institution alerted authorities before the transaction could be completed.
According to investigators, the man had been at his residence near Nelson and Codrington streets when he heard “loud banging” coming from his roof. Shortly afterward, two men - dressed like contractors - knocked on his door offering assistance. The pair claimed the man’s chimney had been damaged and needed immediate repair.
During the interaction, the alleged contractors escalated the situation by making threats.
The victim told police the contractors warned he “would lose his house if he didn’t pay to have the chimney fixed.” A contract presented to the man identified the business as Ontario Roof Repairs & Masonry, police said.
The Barrie Police Service Fraud Unit is working to identify the individuals involved in what investigators believe was an attempted scam. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Fraud Unit at 705-725-7025. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477
Police are reminding the community to exercise caution when dealing with unsolicited contractors, particularly those who arrive unexpectedly and demand immediate payment.
Residents are advised to:
- Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics
- Avoid making rushed financial decisions
- Seek a second opinion before agreeing to costly repairs
Authorities say these types of scams often target older adults and rely on intimidation and urgency to succeed.
