Drumheller RCMP is investigating a door-to-door campaign that may have been signing up local customers for utility service without their knowledge.
Constable Jon Foran tells the Mail there have had several reports of local residents being signed up for Direct Energy services without their knowledge or consent. It has been alleged the homeowners' signatures were forged by a contractor for Direct Energy.
“This is the first time I have heard of this going on,” said Foran.
In instances where the customer was not with Direct Energy, their current energy provider was discontinued, and Direct Energy took over the service and billed the customer accordingly.
Beginning January 1, the province prohibited the solicitation of door-to-door sales of energy products.
“Now the fact is this is illegal, you can’t even go door-to-door to sell,” he said.
He said right now there are two active investigations, however, has heard of more. He said often people are hesitant to come forward when they are the victims of an alleged scam. He encourages anyone who may have experienced this type of incident to come forward.
He adds that with an active investigation, it may be easier to get a resolution.
The more people I can get, the better,” he said.
Should you have any information on this or any other crime, or feel you may be a victim, please contact Drumheller RCMP at 403-823-2630 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
