Police warn of scam targeting elderly

Hawaii island police are warning the public about unlicensed contractors who are soliciting elderly residents to hire them for various residential projects.

Police said the scam occurs when the unlicensed contractor offers services such as power washing, house painting, driveway paving and auto-body repairs. A full payment is requested up front to purchase material and supplies.

The victim often agrees and pays the full amount. Police said the con artists only complete a portion of the work, claim they will return to complete the rest of the project, but never do.

Police advise the public to research whether the contractor is licensed and ask for documents of identification. Residents are also advised not to sign any contract unless it details the type of work to be done and includes a deadline.

Anyone who may have been victimized by this type of scam is asked to call the department’s nonemergency number at 935-3311 or go to the nearest police station to file a complaint.

Consumers may also call the Division of the Regulated Industries Complaints Office of the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs at 587-3222.