Police are investigating an incident in which an 80-year-old Isle of Wight woman was conned out of £220 by suspected rogue traders from the mainland.
2 men were seen on Meadow Way in Sandown on Tuesday (25th July).
The victim agreed for the men to clean her conservatory for £50 after they knocked on her front door at around 10:00. They then stated that the gutters needed cleaning for an additional £50.
The 2 men later presented the woman with a bill for more than £200. She handed over £220 in cash after stating that she felt intimidated.
1 of the men was described as small, the other as ‘chunky’.
A 16-year-old boy from Warwickshire and a 20-year-old man from Wales have been arrested on suspicion of committing fraud by false representation in relation to this investigation. They have both been released from custody, but remain under investigation.
Police would like to remind residents of the following crime prevention advice:
• Always check the credentials of unknown callers.
• Never employ cold-calling doorstep traders or engage with cold callers on the phone.
• Consider joining or setting up a No Cold Calling Zone or Neighbourhood Watch scheme.
• Report any suspicious callers or activity to the police immediately.
• Keep an eye on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, friends and family.
If you want to report any suspicious activity dial 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously. In an emergency always dial 999.
Isle of Wight Council’s Trading Standards team also offer advice via their website or by calling 01983 821000.
