Barrie Police are investigating a fraud case in which an elderly man lost thousands of dollars to an alleged roofer. The incident, reported on May 15, 2026, involved a suspect who offered to repair the victim's chimney but never completed the work.
Details of the Fraud
According to police, the suspect approached the elderly homeowner and offered to fix a damaged chimney. After receiving payment, the suspect failed to perform the repairs and disappeared. The victim reportedly lost a significant sum of money.
Police Investigation
Barrie Police are urging anyone with information to come forward. They believe there may be additional victims and are warning residents to be cautious when hiring contractors.
Tips to Avoid Contractor Fraud
- Always verify the contractor's credentials and references.
- Get multiple quotes before agreeing to any work.
- Never pay the full amount upfront; use a payment schedule tied to completed work.
- Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics or unsolicited offers.
Police remind the public that legitimate contractors will provide written contracts and proof of insurance.
