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INCIDENT REPORT:
On November 16, two individuals offered to clean gutters at a residence on the 2100 block of Winding Way. The resident paid by check. About an hour later, the subjects returned claiming the check was invalid and requested a new one, returning the original. Two weeks later, the resident discovered both checks had been cashed. When contacted, Subject #1 admitted knowing the first check cleared and promised repayment, which has not occurred. The resident was advised to file a police report immediately
SUSPECT DETAILS:
- Subject #1: White male, early 20s, approx. 6’1″, medium build, mustache. Wearing black/white sweatshirt with “Smart Home Pros.” Driving white pickup truck with ladder racks and “ACE Cleaning” on door.
- Subject #2: White male, early 20s, shorter than Subject #1. Wearing similar sweatshirt. Driving sedan
RECOGNIZE THE RED FLAGS:
- The “Bad Check or wrong payee” Tactic: Any contractor claiming your check didn’t process before you see it leave your bank account is a major red flag.
- Unsolicited Arrival: Reputable companies rarely go door-to-door without an appointment.
- High-Pressure Demands: Scammers create a false sense of urgency or intimidation to get immediate payment.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF:
- Do Not Open the Door: Speak through a locked door or window if you do not have an appointment.
- Verify First: Ask for a business card and photo ID. Verify their license with the City before allowing any work to start.
- Check Your Bank: If someone claims your check was bad, do not provide a second payment. Contact your bank directly to verify the status of the first check.
- Never Pay in Cash: Only pay once work is completed to your satisfaction and never pay the full amount upfront.
REPORTING SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY:
- Call Lincoln Police Department: Non Emergency at (916) 645-4040
- File a Neighborhood Watch Incident report at SCLHWatch.org – Report an Incident
- File incident report with the FTC: at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.