A Facebook swindler has been convicted of fraud, according to the Saanich Police Department.
In 2021, from March to June, Bruce William Woods, who operated under the name C.B. Contracting and Labour, defrauded 16 victims of over $16,000, after advertising custom-built sheds and planter boxes on Facebook Marketplace. Interested users contacted Woods and each paid him a deposit for his services. Woods, however, never completed his work and failed to return the deposits.
"When planning to hire a contractor it is important to do your research," said Saanich Police in a news release. "Checking a company’s standing with the Better Business Bureau is one way to determine if the person you are putting your trust in, and your money, is worth the investment. You should also avoid paying in advance for services and whenever possible use a credit card or PayPal for added security."
On Sept. 23, Woods was convicted of 16 counts of fraud under $5,000. On Oct. 4, he received a six-month conditional sentence and two years probation, as well as an order to repay his victims.
"Bruce Woods of CB Contracting and Labor took a hefty deposit of $3,102.89 to build a 10x14 shed which he was to start June 7 and complete in two days and never did. He dropped off a small portion of the materials and has never been seen since nor has he promised a time frame to come nor refunded me," read one online review.
Another review warned people not to hire Woods.
"We are a non-profit childcare centre that was wanting to introduce gardening to our children and hired Bruce to make some cedar planter boxes for us. We paid a 50 per cent deposit and then waited. And waited. And waited. Every excuse was given and delivery dates came and went. We have asked for a refund of our deposit and now communication has stopped! Do not give this guy your money!"
Police ask anyone who has become a victim of fraud to report it to police, regardless of the amount.
"Your report may be the key to discovering a series of frauds that help us catch the perpetrator."
To report a fraud to the Saanich Police, call: 250-475-4321.
