An Albany woman has become the latest victim of an elaborate paving scam after being pressured and blackmailed by fraudulent contractors demanding $28,000 for unfinished work. The ordeal began when the suspects approached her home, offering what they claimed was a discount on leftover asphalt from a nearby job.
According to the victim, the men started paving her driveway without providing a written estimate or agreement. Once the work was done, they presented an inflated bill far exceeding the original verbal quote. When she refused to pay, the scammers allegedly threatened her, demanding thousands of dollars and warning of consequences if she didn’t comply.
Authorities have since issued warnings across Albany and surrounding areas, urging homeowners to be cautious of unlicensed contractors who often target elderly or unsuspecting residents. Officials say these scams follow a pattern — unsolicited offers, rushed jobs, no contracts, and aggressive payment demands.
The woman, who stood her ground and contacted police immediately, is now being praised for exposing the group’s tactics. Investigators are actively searching for the suspects, while community members are calling for stricter penalties against traveling scam crews operating across state lines.