Police warn of home repair scam
By ROB PRICE THE COURIER-ADVOCATE

BATH — Village police have issued a warning that area homeowners could be targeted by con artists posing as contractors.

Police Chief David Rouse last week said the police department has received reports of an individual approaching village residents with an offer to seal their driveways. "Reputable contractors seldom solicit their services door to door," Rouse said in a press release. "The public is encouraged to report suspicious persons and activity to their law enforcement agencies."

Tactics of the scam include taking down payments for work that is never performed and using substandard materials, Rouse said. The scam also includes distracting a homeowner while other members of the group burglarize the home.

Bath police have investigated similar cons in the past.

According to Rouse, an individual identified as Patrick Mack was arrested in North Carolina after his fingerprint was recovered from a home invasion that occurred Sept. 19, 2006 in the Village of Bath. The victim was an 85- year-old female, Rouse said, noting two individuals distracted her at her front door while two other individuals snuck into her house and removed a safe.

Mack posted bail and subsequently eluded authorities, Rouse said.

In December 2007, Mack's father, identified as Johnny Francis Mack was arrested in Georgia and extradicted to Bath on charges connected with the same home invasion. He is currently an inmate at the Steuben County Jail and is scheduled to be released Aug. 8.

"They're all related in some fashion," Rouse said.

Anyone who observes suspicious activity involving proposed home repairs or driveway sealing should contact the village police at 776- 2175.