Pittsburgh Seniors Scammed Out of $6,750—Contractor Steps Up for Free

When a Scam Took Their Savings, A Stranger Rebuilt Their Trust

Pam and Dennis Ruffing thought they were finally upgrading their garden-side driveway with a new retaining wall. Instead, they were left with a pile of bricks, a muddy mess, and $6,750 gone.

The West Mifflin couple, both seniors, had hired a landscaping company after being promised quality work. But after paying a $4,000 advance, the contractor vanished. The excuses came fast: a broken truck, a fire in his trailer… and nothing.

They weren’t just disappointed—they were devastated.

Reporting That Made a Real Difference

After waiting for two years with no progress, the Ruffings reached out to KDKA Investigates, hoping their story might prevent others from falling into the same trap. What they didn’t expect was that it would bring help.

Local contractor Ray Benvenuti heard about their situation through a friend who saw the news segment. Tired of seeing hardworking folks—especially older adults—taken advantage of, he decided to step in.

He and his crew from Benvenuti Landscaping and Reconstruction showed up, bringing with them more than just tools. A nearby hardware store pitched in supplies, and with what the original scammers had left behind, they rebuilt the retaining wall from scratch.

They even added a matching corner wall near the steps, finishing just in time for the Ruffings to enjoy their Easter lunch without a tarp-covered eyesore in the yard.

Rebuilding More Than a Wall

What Ray and his team offered wasn’t just construction work but restoration of trust.

In a world where scammers increasingly target older adults, this story stood out as a reminder that good people still exist, and kindness can still win.

What Seniors Need to Know Before Hiring a Contractor

• Always get at least 2–3 quotes before choosing a contractor.
  
• Never pay more than one-third up front. In Pennsylvania, this is protected by law.
  
• Ask for proof of insurance and check for proper registration.
  
• In PA, contractors doing $5,000+ per year must register with the Bureau of Consumer Protection.
  

For the Ruffings, the experience was bittersweet. While they lost money, they gained something far more lasting—proof that even in the wake of dishonesty, there are still people willing to do the right thing.

And for everyone watching? A reminder to stay alert—but also to never lose faith in the goodness of others.