U.K. grandfather, grandson charged in reno scam costing Ontario man over $50K

York Regional Police have arrested two men from the United Kingdom and are looking for a third suspect concerning a renovation scam.

In late March, police officers in Markham pulled over a vehicle during a traffic stop. Upon a search, authorities located several home repair contracts under the company names “City Renovation” and “Masonry.”

Investigators learned that an elderly victim paid three men more than $50,000 to complete repairs on the interior and exterior of his house, including the roof. No work was ever done, police said.

On March 30, police arrested 65-year-old Thomas Connors and his grandson, 20-year-old Thomas Jacob Connors — both residents of the U.K.

The two family members were charged with fraud over $5,000, possessing a forged document and property obtained by crime. They’re expected to appear in court next week on April 13.

Police said a third suspect, 39-year-old Jimmy Connors, also of the U.K., is currently wanted on an arrest warrant. His relation to the two family members is unclear.

Jimmy Connors is described as white, six feet and 190 pounds, with blue eyes, a shaved head and short, brown, scruffy facial hair. Police said he speaks with an Irish accent.

The third Connors man faces fraud charges over $5,000 and possessing a forged document. Investigators believe there are other victims.

Halton police warn of similar door-to-door fraud

Halton police issued a news release warning residents in the region to be on the lookout for a door-to-door home repair scam.

Investigators say the fraudulent services include chimney or driveway repair and interlock stonework. The suspect or suspects will provide quotes with prices lower than market value and, once a deal is reached, will request a large cash payment.

A man works on a roof. Police across the GTA are urging homeowners to be extra vigilant due to a recent rise in home repair scams. Photo: Unsplash.

Based on complaints made by victims, police said initial work might start, but the work will be sub-par or incomplete. Police believe there may be additional victims in Halton and victims outside the region.

The suspects are described as middle-aged white males with Irish or possibly Scottish accents wearing high-visibility construction vests.

Police said the suspects often insist that their victims pay in cash, often as a deposit. A series of business cards, pamphlets, and printed contracts may also accompany door-to-door sales pitches, police noted.

Officers are urging homeowners to be extra vigilant, do as much research as possible before agreeing to any home repair service, and be cautious of services offered through the phone or door-to-door.

“If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is,” Halton police said.