Fake OPP Officer and Judge Roofing Scam Hits Kanata Seniors

TL;DR: Ottawa Police and the OPP are investigating two Kanata incidents in which someone claiming to be an OPP officer and someone claiming to be a judge became involved in roofing work. Victims handed over tens of thousands of dollars for services that were misrepresented or never delivered. Police officers and judges do not vouch for contractors or collect payment for repairs.

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Ottawa Police Service and the OPP are warning about a fraud in which suspects impersonate law enforcement and judicial officials to take large sums from seniors, a story highlighted in this week's Canadian Senior Moment roundup.

What investigators are looking at

Two Kanata incidents involved someone claiming to be an OPP officer and someone claiming to be a judge who got involved in roofing work. The victims paid tens of thousands of dollars for services that were misrepresented or never delivered. It adds a fake authority figure to the familiar home renovation fraud.

Why an official voice works

People are trained to trust police and courts. A contractor problem that suddenly involves an 'officer' or a 'judge' feels serious and time-sensitive, and it discourages questions or a second opinion. That is the same lever used in our report on bank and government imposter scam calls.

How to protect yourself or a parent

Police officers and judges do not vouch for contractors or collect payment for repairs.
Get several written quotes and avoid paying large amounts up front, especially in cash.
Confirm any 'official' through the police non-emergency line, not a number the contractor gives you.
Ask a trusted family member to review any big job before you sign.
If anyone uses urgency or secrecy, stop and take a day.

If you or someone you know paid

Contact police and your bank right away. Report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501, even if you did not lose money, and see the reporting guide. For older relatives, our guide to protecting aging parents covers the wider risks.

Another authority-impersonation case is the Guelph fake bank investigator scam, and a payment-pressure case is Winnipeg's Bitcoin ATM CRA scam.

FAQs

Do police officers or judges recommend contractors?

No. They do not vouch for contractors or collect payment for repairs. Anyone claiming to is a red flag.

How can I verify someone claiming to be police?

Hang up and call the police non-emergency line using a number you found yourself. Do not use a number the contractor supplies.

Where do I report a home repair scam in Canada?

Report to your local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501. OPP reports can also go to 1-888-310-1122.

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