Coquitlam RCMP are warning Austin Heights residents and business owners about a suspected scam artist.
The man comes to the door and says he has had car trouble, and asks for $8.50 to prevent his vehicle from being towed, police say. He promises to stop at a bank to pay the victim back but is never seen again.
"It happened to several area residents and store owners recently, and the male even received money from some," said Cpl. Jamie Chung.
And while the man was not aggressive in any way, Chung cautions people to listen to their "gut feeling."
"Don't open your door if you don't feel comfortable dealing with someone," Chung said. "Without opening the door, loudly ask the person to leave. Call us if he doesn't."
The man is described as a Caucasian in his mid 20s, about 6' tall and weighing 200 lb. with short dark hair; he has been seen wearing a green winter coat over a black hoodie and blue jeans.
Chung said the man appears to be targeting homes and small businesses in the Austin Avenue, Schoolhouse Street and Mariner Way area, and may live nearby.
