Contractor facing multiple fraud charges accused of taking money and not doing work

Halifax Regional Police have laid multiple fraud charges against a Halifax-area contractor who allegedly took money for work he never performed.

Robert Allan Monk, 50, agreed to home improvement jobs for a number of people between May 2020 and May 2021, police said Monday in a news release. They said Monk asked for money upfront, usually via e-transfer. 

Police alleged Monk would not perform the work clients paid for and would stop communicating with them.

Monk faces eight fraud charges, three charges of possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, three charges of possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000, and 10 charges of breaching probation. 

None of the allegations has been tested in court.

Using the name of a legitimate business 

Dan Monk owns Monk Renovations in Halifax — and he wants to make it clear his company is in no way affiliated with the accused.

The business owner said he's been aware of Robert Monk for about a year, and has been getting calls and messages for the last few months from alleged victims.

He alleged the accused told customers that he was affiliated with Monk Renovations "in order to boost his credibility."

"It's just disgusting to me," said Dan Monk.

He has some advice for people looking to hire a reputable contractor: 

• Get a written quote.

• Sign a contract.

• Look for someone who is incorporated and insured.

• Check their references.

Robert Monk is scheduled to appear in Halifax provincial court at a later date.