Roofing scam targeting seniors; suspects impersonating police officer and judge

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, September 11, 2026  9:30 a.m. 

Ottawa — The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are warning residents about an ongoing fraud scheme in which suspects are impersonating law enforcement and judicial officials to defraud seniors of significant sums of money.

Investigators are currently examining two incidents in the Kanata area in which suspect(s) falsely identified themselves as an Ontario Provincial Police officer and a judge while engaging with victims regarding roofing work. 

Through these misrepresentations, victims have been convinced to provide tens of thousands of dollars for services that were either misrepresented or not delivered as promised.

Police are concerned that additional residents may be targeted and are urging the public, particularly seniors and their family members, to be vigilant when approached by individuals claiming to represent government agencies, law enforcement, or the courts.

Members of the public are reminded that:

• Police officers and judges do not solicit payments or business services from members of the public.
• Residents should be cautious of unsolicited offers for home repairs, roofing work, or other contracting services.
• Before agreeing to any work, obtain multiple written estimates, verify the contractor’s credentials, and check references.
• Never feel pressured to make an immediate decision or payment.
• If someone claims to be a police officer, government official, or judge and requests money or personal information, independently verify their identity by contacting the organization directly through publicly listed phone numbers.

Anyone who believes they may have been approached by individuals involved in this scheme, or who has information that could assist investigators, is encouraged to contact police. Victims of fraud are also encouraged to report incidents to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

The OPS and OPP are committed to protecting residents from fraud and encourage family members, caregivers, and community organizations to share this information widely to help prevent further victimization.

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Contacts: 

Ottawa Police Service Media Relations 
Tel: 613-236-1222, ext.  5366

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OPP Media Contact: Sergeant Erin Cranton
(613)340-3905, erin.cranton@opp.ca

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