Conman Caught After Scamming Elderly Couple Out of Thousands Over Fake Roof Repairs
Shameless Scammer Targets Vulnerable Pensioners
Paddy Doran, 31, made three uninvited visits to an elderly couple’s home near Church Road in March 2020. Claiming their roof tiles were stolen and needed urgent replacement, he spun a fake tale to trick the vulnerable pair.
Despite the roof being in perfectly good condition, Doran persuaded the pensioners to hand over cash for unnecessary repairs. But the promised work never happened. Not stopping there, he then tried to con them out of another £1,200.
Police Nab Fraudster in the Act
Kent Police launched a swift investigation after the victims reported the scam. During a visit to the couple’s address, officers spotted Doran driving past the property. They tailed him to a nearby cul-de-sac, where he tried to slip away on foot – but got caught.
Doran was arrested and charged with fraud by false representation and driving a vehicle not registered to him. He denied all charges, but a Maidstone Crown Court jury found him guilty on Monday 14 September.
Jail Time and Tough Restrictions for Cold-Calling Crook
On Tuesday 15 September, Doran was sentenced to two years and three months in prison. He was also slapped with a five-year Criminal Behaviour Order banning him from cold-calling, offering business services, or instructing others to do so.
Investigating officer DC Mark Newman warned: “Anyone can become a victim of fraud but it is usually the most vulnerable who are targeted. Doran conned his victims out of a large sum with no intention of actually doing the work.”
He urged everyone to stay vigilant: “Neighbours and friends should feel confident to question suspicious doorstep callers. It might be nothing, but it’s always better to double-check.”
Stay Alert Against Doorstep Scammers
- Always ask for ID and proof of work before agreeing to any repairs.
- Never hand over cash upfront to cold-callers.
- Check with trusted tradespeople or local councils if in doubt.
Failing to comply with the court order could see Doran thrown back behind bars. The message is clear: doorstep conmen won’t get away with ripping off our most vulnerable.
