Local men caught in potential scam

Two York County men were arrested in Waterville last week on charges they violated the Consumer Solicitation Sales Act when they solicited work in the area. 

“We’re closely scrutinizing the potential victimization by taking advantage of the older population,” said Waterville Deputy Police Chief Charles Rumsey.

Jason Donald Bolduc, 32, of Kennebunk, and Jean Beaulieu, 39, of Biddeford, were arrested after they failed to wait the three days as required by law that allows customers time to cancel a contract, according to Rumsey. Rumsey said the police are still looking for a third man who was working with the men who were arrested. 

Bolduc, Beaulieu and another man allegedly approached one Waterville resident a few days before the arrest to ask about cutting limbs off a tree in his yard.  After negotiating a price, Ramsey said Bolduc entered the home so the contract could be signed. As soon as the contract was signed, the men began to work on the tree.  

The homeowner realized some of his prescription drugs had been stolen while one worker was inside his home and called a friend who called police, Rumsey said.

Rumsey said the men had left by the time police arrived but they were able to get a description of the men and vehicle, a large white box truck. 

Three days later, an officer spotted the men as they were getting ready to pave another Waterville resident’s driveway.  As the officer pulled up, one man ran and the other two were arrested, according to Rumsey.

Since the arrest, Waterville police have seized paperwork from the men, including a contract for the paving project with a false date written in, according to Rumsey. Waterville police have heard from several more residents that the men had solicited work in the area.

The third man had not been arrested by the Post deadline, but Rumsey said Waterville police believe they know who he is.  

Beaulieu was arrested for violating the consumer contract and violating bail on another violation.  He has been transported to Kennebec County Jail, according to Rumsey.

Rumsey said Bolduc was charged with violating the consumer contract and theft of oxycontin.  Bolduc’s bail was set at $1,000. His court date is July 6.

– Compiled by Suzanne Hodgson