**** Update **** On Monday, January 27, at approximately 11:00 a.m., The accused Nelson MENDONCA was arrested at the front desk of Saanich Police Department after turning himself in for the outstanding arrest warrant. MENDONCA was held in custody to appear in court. ********
Saanich Police are warning area residents of a male who is alleged to have committed at least three fraudulent transactions, defrauding victims of cash, since January 2013.
The person of interest, 34 year old Nelson MENDONCA, is believed to be responsible for three incidents that have been reported to police. MENDONCA has previously been employed in the lansdcaping and paving industry. It would appear that MENDONCA has approached home owners, offering services for landscaping and interlocking concrete paving work. After the home owner shows interest, a verbal quote is given, and a request for a down payment for the purchase of the materials is made. Once the down payment is received, the work is never completed.
Home owners should be wary when entering into an agreement with a door to door solicitor, even if they may be familiar with the individual offering services. It is suggested, before agreeing for work to be completed, that the home owner: 1) confirm a business name and contact info; 2) check the name of the business with the Better Business Bureau if in doubt; 3) ensure that any quote is received, in writing, on company letterhead; and 4) ensure that a reciept is provided for any kind of down payment (which should not exceed half of the original quote).
MENDONCA is described as a Caucasian male, 5’10” tall, approximatelty 165 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. (see photo attached)
It is believed that MENDONCA is still residing in the Greater Victoria area, although his current address in not known. A warrant for his arrest, to answer to three counts of Fraud Under $5000, has been issued.
Anyone who may have information relating to the whereabouts of Nelson MENDONCA are asked to contact the Saanich Police Department at 250-475-4321, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS(8477).
If you, or someone you know, has fallen victim to this type of incident, you are encouraged to contact police to report the incident.
File 2013-3353
Sgt. Steve Eassie #158