A number of Western Australians have been victims of an alleged theft from a man hired for trade services from social media platforms.
Detectives from the Financial Crimes Squad with police launched an operation after multiple people came forward about the alleged offences following social media posts requesting qualified tradespeople to partake in private home jobs.
A 30-year-old Byford man has been charged with eight counts of stealing and one count of Intent to Defraud Utters a Forged Record in relation to these crimes.
The self-employed tradie allegedly responded to advertisements of renovation jobs across multiple suburbs and quoted the jobs but failed to complete any of the renovations.
He appeared before Armadale Magistrates Court on Monday July 7.
It has further been alleged in some additional cases, workers responded to the adverts and provided a job quote to secure thousands of dollars in deposits without ever completing the works.
Financial Crimes Squad Detective Senior Constable Goodgame said he has urged people to ensure they hire reputable tradespeople.
“We are urging Western Australians to remember to conduct reference checks on tradies who answer your advertisements and never be pressured into handing over substantial deposits,” he said.
“When it comes to engaging tradespeople, it is wise to do ABN checks, request document insurance, identification, and have a formal contract drawn up and signed.
“And remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
If you believe you have been the victim of a scam, contact police on 131 444 or Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au.
Reports can also be made to consumer protection on 1300 304 054 with further information found online at www.consumerprotction.wa.gov.au/hiring-tradespeople-0.
