Windsor Police have released descriptions of two suspects wanted in two separate contractor scams targeting seniors.
Last Friday, police went to a financial institution on Tecumseh Road East. An employee got suspicious when an elderly woman withdrew $13,000 for roofing work. It was the second time in several days that the woman had withdrawn the amount.
The woman got a ride to the bank from a man who called himself "Mark Bignam." He's described as white, 30 to 40-years-old, average height and build, wearing a yellow construction vest. He was driving a red pickup truck.
The second scam was discovered on Tuesday.
A man was spotted removing shingles from the home of an elderly resident on McEwan Avenue. The homeowner wasn't home at the time, and when they returned, the man told them urgent repairs were needed.
The next day, the man returned with a woman, while a second truck arrived with two more men.
The homeowner was driven to a bank where he withdrew $10,000. The suspects then drove him to a second bank where he tried to withdraw another $5,000, but the transaction was declined.
The homeowner was dropped off nearby, and the man promised to return to complete the repairs, but he never did.
The first suspect is described as a white man in his early 20s, wearing a yellow reflective construction shirt, tan cargo shorts, and brown boots.
The second man was also white and about 30-years-old. The third, a white man, in his late 30s, was described as very heavyset with a large stomach. The fourth suspect, a woman, was also white.
Police can't confirm if the two incidents are connected.
"We're urging everyone to speak with their elderly family members, friends, and neighbours about these scams," said Sergeant Rob Durling of the Financial Crimes Unit. "Even a professional-looking flyer or invoice doesn't guarantee a business is legitimate. If something feels off, contact our Financial Crimes Unit."
Police hope someone will recognize the descriptions and help officers identify the suspects.
Anyone with information can call the Windsor Police Service Financial Crimes Unit at 519-255-6700 ext. 4330, Crime Stoppers at 519-258-8477, or go to www.catchcrooks.com.