Two men from the United Kingdom have been arrested and a third suspect is sought after a senior paid more than $50,000 for home repairs that were never done.
York Regional Police discovered a fraudulent renovation scam after searching a vehicle during a traffic stop March 29, finding contracts for home repair in the company names of City Renovation and Masonry, police said in a news release.
"Officers learned an elderly victim paid three men more than $50,000 to complete repairs on the interior and exterior of his home, including the roof. No work was done nor did the suspects return the funds," police said.
Thomas Connors, 65, and Thomas Jacob Connors, 20, both of the U.K., were arrested in Markham and are charged with fraud over $5,000, possession of a forged document and possession of property obtained by crime, police said. They were held for a bail hearing and their next appearance is at the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in Newmarket on April 14, 2023.
An arrest warrant has been issued for the third suspect, Jimmy Connors, 39, also of the U.K. He is described as male, white, 6 feet, 190 lbs., blue eyes, with a shaved head and short, brown, scruffy facial hair. He speaks with an Irish accent. He faces charges of fraud over $5,000 and possession of a forged document.
The investigation remains ongoing. Investigators believe there are other victims and encourage anyone who has not yet come forward to contact police.
