Browse archives: 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995

Published on 12/08/1999 All articles from this issue

Alert over 'Protective roof spray' scam

printer friendly version

By Leslie K. Martin / Town Crier Staff Writer

Jim Bennett, a public information officer with the Mountain View police, said that sometime between Nov. 11-14, two Hispanic youths intimidated an elderly Mountain View couple into paying $500 for a protective roof spray.

The work was not wanted or authorized. The couple learned their roof had been sprayed when the men knocked on their front door asking for payment.

"If anyone else has been the victim of this type of operation, we want to know about it," Bennett said. "Don't pay anyone unless it's a lawful service that you have authorized and agreed to pay."

Bennett said homeowners should not feel pressured by strangers for work they don't want or for payment of unauthorized work. Bennett said, "If you're really interested (in what they offer), get their business card and tell them you'll call them back."

The two youths are both about 5-feet-8, and weigh between 160-170 pounds. They claimed to have sprayed the roof "so it wouldn't crack."

Homeowners should call the police to report strangers who pressure them for unwanted work or payment on unauthorized work. Business cards, license plate numbers, and physical descriptions will help officers trace the individuals.

To report harassment or scams, call the Mountain View Police at 903-6344 or the Los Altos Police Department at 948-8223.