Handyman Scammer Preys On Elderly In Volusia County

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    Senior Scam Volusia County, FL-A scam alert has been issued for a handyman who has taken more than an estimated $20,000 from several victims over the past month. The suspect, 44-year-old Russell Bannister is wanted on charges of exploiting the elderly, organized scheme to defraud and grand theft. Volusia County Public Information Officer Andrew Gant said victims discovered since mid-May are between the ages of 70 and 85. Edgewater and Daytona Beach police departments are investigating cases in their cities. Gant says that Bannister sometimes works with an accomplice, offering to pressure wash or paint the victim’s home for a price - but instead stealing cash and checks and never even starting the work. Bannister has no permanent local address. He is listed as 6 feet tall, 220 pounds with brown hair and green eyes. Anyone with information about any of these cases or knows Bannister’s whereabouts is asked to call the dispatch center at 386-248-1777, or Crime Stoppers of Northeast Florida, toll-free, at 888-277-TIPS. You can also text your tip by texting TIP231 plus your message to CRIMES. Anyone who provides information to Crime Stoppers will remain anonymous and can qualify for a reward of up to $5,000. Russell Bannister business cardRussell Bannister

(Photo courtesy of Volusia County Sheriff's Office)

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