Crime
Authorities warning Massachusetts and Rhode Island residents of scam resulting in the loss of thousands of dollars
Authorities want to make the public aware of a contractor scam showing up in both Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
East Providence has experienced approximately 3 documented incidents in the past week, other agencies (Providence, Lincoln, Seekonk) have also reported similar incidents over the past couple of weeks. These scams are resulting in the loss of thousands of dollars to residents, according to East Providence Police.
Police say that this appears to be a larger scale scam being operated by many different smaller groups throughout the area. They are primarily younger males (20’s and 30’s), with European accents, and are believed to be undocumented. They also may bring along day laborers to complete some of the work.
They are primarily targeting elderly homeowners. They will drive through neighborhoods looking for targets and inform the homeowner that they are doing work in the area and noticed they could use some repairs to their chimney, foundation, steps, etc. They will show up in pickup trucks without visible registrations plates or out of state registration plates.
These groups will request payment directly to multiple individuals or one specific person and ask not to have the checks made out to the alleged company name.
The company names (Homecare Masonry and Roofing, Vintage Paving and Masonry, Greater Boston Masonry & Construction, TDM Property Solutions, Safeguard Masonry and Waterproofing, Stay Dry Waterproofing and Masonry, etc.) are not legitimate companies, according to police, and the addresses and phone numbers are fraudulent.
Authorities ask that you verify that the company is legitimate prior to having someone complete any work. If you are suspicious of the person(s) at your residence, contact your local police department immediately.
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Fed Up
February 6, 2024 at 6:39 pm
These states encourage this. So many unvetted people entering these are the things you get. Maura Healy isn’t crying over the seniors losing thousands
rj
February 7, 2024 at 7:50 am
SO TRUE !!! & its just the start.
NaniV
February 7, 2024 at 8:44 am
Bribem’s finest are in our neighborhoods!
Passion Fruit
February 7, 2024 at 8:52 am
Sad, but true! Residents need to do their due diligence before hiring any contractor to do work on their homes. A background check (BIC) should be required of any contracting business along with being “Bonded” within the sister States, licensed, etc. I’ve never trusted any company just showing up at my home stating they can do this or that for $$$$$. A huge lightbulb should go off before hiring those types of “Drive by” business’. The warning is great, but the Attorney Generals office should do better before allowing these types of business’ to do business. Yes, there are so many scam companies operating in New England and it needs to stop with those at the top to protect RI consumers, especially the elderly.