Gypsies selling asphalt may be back in the area

Howard Owens — Sep 16, 2015, 11:05am

A caller reports a group of men going door-to-door on Lewiston Road claiming to be a construction crew with leftover asphalt they're looking to unload.

We first reported similar activity involving a group of Gypsies hitting the area in 2010.

The men are reportedly in a white pickup truck and moving in the direction of the city.

A trooper has been dispatched to check the "suspicious condition."

Sheriff's Office warns of 'Gypsy' activity in the region

Howard Owens — Aug 6, 2009, 1:28pm

If you see any gypsies in the area, they may be doing more than playing a little music, warns local law enforcement officials.

A release from the Genesee County Sheriff's office, written by Chief Jerome Brewester, warns of "'Traveler' or 'Gypsy' activity" may be hitting the area, even though there are no formal complaints.

"Of particular importance is the fact that these scam artists usually prey upon the elderly and we ask that everyone assist in protecting your elderly neighbors," Brewster wrote.

Brewster passed along an information sheet of things to look for from the National Association of Bunco Investigators.

Some warning signs:

The repair person drives an unmarked truck or van with out-of-state plates
The worker has no business identification
You are offered a "special price" if you sign today
The worker wants upfront costs or fees or accepts cash only
No written estimates or contracts
The worker has no references
The offer "sounds too good to be true"

Residents who spot suspicious activity are asked to contact local law enforcement.