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Investigation Into Home Repair Scam Earns Officer Award

KPD View Officer Award Winners View Civilian Award Winners March 6, 2009 - Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam and Police Chief Sterling Owen today named Investigator Richard Giammarino the January Officer of the Month for the Knoxville Police Department. Investigator Giammarino has been with the department since November 1986. After being notified of a possible forgery and fraud attempt concerning an elderly Knoxville resident, Investigator Giammarino initiated an investigation. Investigator Giammarino determined the victim had been victimized by the suspects repeatedly and had been scammed out of more than $24,000.00 which was nearly the entire life savings of the victim. The scam involved unscrupulous contractors who allegedly performed work on the victim’s residence and then charged exorbitant fees. Work that was supposed to have been completed included replacement or repairs to the existing roof, gutter, basement, and waterproofing. Chief Owen said, “Investigator Giammarino worked to identify all of the instances where the suspects had charged the victim for work. He then took the extra step of having an inspector view the work to render an opinion on the work performed and typical charges for similar work. Investigator Giammarino then arranged for the victim to speak with Consumer Reporter Don Dare so the public could be alerted to the scam and hopefully prevent further victimization.” Investigator Giammarino has identified the possible suspects involved with this scam and is currently working with the District Attorney General’s Office to help ensure the most beneficial outcome for the victim. Mayor Haslam said, “We commend Investigator Giammarino for his work on this investigation. He continues to work tirelessly on this investigation while doing what he can to prevent others from falling victim to these suspects.”

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