Police: Beware of phony chimney cleaning firm

The Franklin Borough Police Department is advising area residents that a fraudulent chimney cleaning business has been attempting to conduct illegal business in Franklin. Over the last month, several incidents have been reported involving a fictitious company that goes by the name of BreathEasy Chimney and Duct Cleaning. Fictitious “employees” of this company have approached elderly couples and/or elderly individuals telling them that their chimney needs to be serviced. After convincing the homeowner to allow them to perform work on the chimney, they demand an unreasonable payment for the work. On one occasion, work was never performed and payment was received and at a separate residence, damage was caused to the furnace and chimney before the suspects fled the scene. Franklin Police urge residents to be aware of such fraudulent business practices. Contact the Franklin Borough Police and Detective Bureau with any information or observations of any suspicious activity at 973-827-7700. What’s next The council is expected to vote on the amended budget at its Aug. 18 meeting. The final reading and public hearing on the budget will take place on Sept. 1.