HARFORD COUNTY, Md. — The Harford County Sheriff’s Office is looking for victims of a theft scheme by a home improvement contractor.

Detectives charged David Desell, 33, with preying on the elderly in Harford County.

Harford County Sheriff’s Office

The investigation was sparked by a call the sheriff’s office received on Halloween.

Officials say the adult child of one of the victims called them saying their mother was taken advantage of by Desell in September.

Desell allegedly knocked on her door and offered his services to make repairs to her home that turned out to be unnecessary or rectified deficiencies.

A second victim, who lives on the same street, reported being approached by Desell as well.

He allegedly told the victim that she had a crack in her foundation, causing a major structural problem, and if it wasn’t repaired in time, her house could collapse.

Desell allegedly provided falsified and fabricated documents, invoices, licenses and photographs to scare victims into accepting expensive home repairs that would never be completed or completed with false documents.

For example, the first victim was charged $3,124 for a Coachman brand door when a $418 replica was installed.

Both victims live in the Bel Air area.

Desell was arrested Nov. 5 at his home and later released on $5,000 bond.

If you feel that you or a loved one has been taken advantage of, contact detectives at 410-836-5428.