Senior targeted in alleged roofing fraud

The damaged chimney on the home of a senior man Barrie police believe was defrauded. (Barrie Police)

Barrie police are warning residents of an alleged roofing scam that attempted to defraud an elderly man out of tens of thousands of dollars.

Police say they were called to a local financial institution after concerns were raised by staff about a possible fraud, involving an 84-year-old man who was attempting to withdraw a significant amount of money for alleged roof repairs.

According to police, the man claimed he was at home when he heard a loud banging sound coming from his roof. Shortly thereafter, police say, two men dressed like contractors knocked on his door and offered to repair his chimney, which had been damaged.

Through their investigation, police say they learned the two people had allegedly damaged the chimney, demanded payment for its repair and threatened to report the damage if the man refused to pay.

Police allege the men told the resident he would lose his home if he refused to pay.

According to police, a contract listed the company as Ontario Roof Repairs & Masonry.

Investigators are asking anyone with information that could be used to identify the men allegedly involved, or anyone who may have experienced a similar incident involving this company, to reach out to Barrie police.