Suspicious male targeting vulnerable addresses - scam alert

Good evening

This afternoon, we have had a report regarding suspicious activity in the Newburgh area involving a male who had parked outside an address and started to powerwash the tiled front drive without asking.

The male's MO is to start powerwashing tiled driveways without asking the resident for permission or talking to neighbours in advance. When challenged, the male claims to have had a booking over the phone or email. He then says that he ‘may as well finish powerwashing the drive since he has already started’. 

This male then tells the resident that they must pay him £1000 or else he will send round debt collectors to the address. 

The male, although quite polite at first, can be intimidating due to his use of threatening language and targeting of vulnerable residents, e.g the elderly. 

The male is white, of average build, has short brown hair, a thick Irish accent, and is travelling in a black Volvo ranger/ pick-up type vehicle. This male might also be in company with a younger white male - approx 11-15 years old. 

We are making local residents in the area aware and encourage you to be vigilant - especially if you have a flagstone/ tiled driveway. Please share this message. 

Neighbourhood officers are currently making enquiries to identify the male and the vehicle used. NPT are also going to be showing an increased presence in the area. Any sightings or incidents are to be reported to police by calling 101. If you feel in danger, or feel someone else is in danger, then please call 999. 

Stay safe,

Skelmersdale NPT