Pennsylvania State Police are investigating a home improvement fraud that took place in Berks County, and troopers believe there may be other local victims.

According to a PSP release, troopers responded on New Year’s Eve to a residence in Longswamp Township, Berks County, where they learned of an elderly male victim who was scammed by suspect James Patrick Burke (pictured below via released photo) and Burke’s juvenile son. PSP said that Burke attempted to scam the victim for $3,800 by claiming that the victim’s chimney needed repairs.

Troopers said that Burke is a known transient and a resident of Bear, DE, and that he may have previously attempted to scam other victims in the area. PSP released Burke’s picture and business card with hopes of identifying other persons who may have information or previously had contact with Burke. Trooper Max Seiler can be reached at 610-378-4011 or mseiler@pa.gov if this describes you.

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