Indy Police Arrest Man in Code Enforcement Scam

Jan. 19, 2012
A man who police said impersonated a Department of Code Enforcement employee to dupe a 65-year-old woman out of nearly $5,000 turned himself in on Wednesday.

INDIANAPOLIS

A man who police said impersonated a Department of Code Enforcement employee to dupe a 65-year-old woman out of nearly $5,000 turned himself in on Wednesday, Indianapolis police said.

Mark Hoffman faces charges of forgery, theft and impersonating a public servant. He faces forgery, prescription drug offenses and possession of controlled substances in a separate case.

Police said Hoffman told the victim an unlicensed contractor had worked on her home and that the city had levied fines against her.

Over the course of several weeks, investigators said, Hoffman returned to the victim's home, and she gave him more money.

Police said Hoffman had knowledge of licensing because he had been cited for being unlicensed.

Police said DCE inspectors have photo IDs, drive in marked city vehicles and don't accept payment in person.

Hoffman was being held Thursday, with bail set at $150,000.

Copyright 2012 by TheIndyChannel.com All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Sponsored Recommendations

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Officer, create an account today!