He allegedly took £270,000 for building work that was never carried out or was incomplete
A rogue trader has been taken into custody after it was alleged that he had targeted residents of numerous towns, including Kenilworth and Leamington.
Investigators are looking into claims made by seven victims in Leamington, Kenilworth, Stratford, Bedworth, Solihull and Banbury that they paid over £270,000 for unfinished or never completed building work.
A 66-year-old man from the Stratford area has been arrested on suspicion of fraud.
When doing construction work, people should exercise caution, according to Warwickshire Police Economic Crime Team Detective Sergeant Paul Hainsworth. Try using a credit or debit card to make your payment so you can potentially get your money back in case something goes wrong, he advised.
Don’t promise to pay the whole amount beforehand, please. You might not be able to avoid paying a deposit if the work will take a lengthy period, but try to keep the sum as small as possible.
“Offer to purchase the supplies yourself rather than giving a deposit if the builder states they require the funds up front. This way, you will be the owner of them in the event that something goes wrong.
Obtain a receipt for any materials paid for with a deposit at all times.
“Do your research and always try to get recommendations from friends and family.”
The inquiry is still on.
To provide information that could aid in an investigation, visit www.warwickshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about or give 101 a call. Kindly cite crime reference number 23/238/24.
Alternatively, you can call 0800 555 111 to speak with an independent charity, Crimestoppers, anonymously.
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