Limerick woman targeted by man who coerced her to pave driveway
GARDAI are investigating after a Limerick homeowner was targeted by a "con man".
The man coerced the woman into getting her driveway paved. He completed the job, which was less than satisfactory, and then demanded an "exorbitant" fee from the woman.
The home owner contacted the gardai and they are now investigating.
Garda John Finnerty from Henry Street garda station warned that these people will pose as officials of some description.
"There are a number of travelling criminals who call to houses in both rural areas and also residences in the city during the day, either offering items for sale or offering to clean gutters, power wash drives or to lay tarmacadam etc.
"They usually wear a yellow fluorescent vest. These criminals are con men who prey on the elderly and the vulnerable and they do their best to intimidate them or trick them into buying something or getting some unnecessary jobs done.
"These criminals are opportunistic and versatile and will give all kinds of reasons to try to get into your house".
Garda Finnerty continued: "They will steal any valuable items left unattended in the vicinity of the house. Please do not entertain these people.
"If you suspect that they are a fraud, then please contact your nearest garda station straight away. Always be satisfied as to a caller’s identity before you do business with them.
"If you need to get any odd jobs done then get quotations from local tradesmen that are reputable and you know that you can trust.
"Do not entertain cold callers. Remember, you are under no obligation whatsoever to open your front door to anyone".