Pensioner hands thousands to rogue doorstep builders (From Harrow Times)

Wembley pensioner hands thousands to rogue doorstep builders

12:51pm Wednesday 24th October 2012 in News By David Hardiman, Reporter

Police are warning pensioners not to give in to rogue builders after an elderly woman handed thousands of pounds to fake repairmen at her doorstep.

The victim, an 89-year-old woman, was targeted by two men who knocked on her door in Wembley on October 11 and said he roof needed repairing, before offering to carry out the work.

But the duo said she would need to transfer money into their bank account before they could start, and during the next few days called her demanding more money be handed over.

One of the men was arrested when his bank became suspicious as he withdrew the money and called police.

PC Ketan Gami, of Brent Police, said: “We would urge members of the public to be extra vigilant. If you see anything suspicious or have been approached by anyone of similar circumstances then contact your local police.”

 

• Sean Smith, 39, of Cudhan Drive, Croydon, appeared at Hendon Magistrates’ Court on Monday charged with fraud and was remanded in custody.