Hamilton Spectator
Hamilton police are warning about a group of men pressuring seniors to make unnecessary repairs to their chimneys after two incidents last week in which people were approached and pressured to make the repairs.
In both cases, one man approached the victims outside in their yards while the other suspects went onto the roof and chipped away mortar on the chimney, leading the senior to believe they needed the repairs, according to police.
One man, the oldest of the group, negotiated a price and in one case, the victim was driven to the bank to get money for payment. Once payment was made, the men led the victims to believe the work was done and they left.
All of the men are described as white and were driving an older model white pickup truck with the words "AAA Asphalt" or "AAA Asphalt Solutions" written on the side.
One suspect is described as 50 to 60 years old, rough-looking with a scruffy beard and poor teeth, and having a heavy build with a large belly, weighing about 250 pounds. He wore work clothes.
A second suspect is described as being in his early 30s and having an average build.
The other men are between 20 and 40 years old.
Police remind people that when approached in this manner, to ask to see credentials and to not get the work done without getting at least three quotes first and a contract. Avoid cash deals. Avoid high pressure sales pitches, and call police if they refuse to leave your property. More information at www.hamiltonpolice.on.ca