Man Says Scammed Over Unsolicited Work; 'Finger Motions' Fly in Road Rage

The following are excerpts from reports in the Danvers Police Department press log from April 6-7.

Saturday, April 6

• 3:06 a.m. Michael Miksis, 34, of 149 High St., Danvers, was arrested, following a motor vehicle stop on Perry Street. He was charged with driving with a suspended license and on a warrant from Salem District Court for motor vehicle violations.
• 1:21 p.m. An elderly River Street resident reported he was scammed out of more than $6,000. The incident is still under investigation. Police said that according to the victim, a person came to the man's door and told him his trees were interfering with the town's eletric wires. He was quoted a price, which also included cleaning up his yard, and he agreed. The man said he paid the fee, but then the person returned the next day and told him they had agreed on a higher price. Again, the man paid. Police say the incident is suspicious, although they did find the alleged scammers who claim there was legitimate work performed at the man's property. Police advise residents to be cautious when contractors or other service providers come knocking unsolicited and try to research the company before agreeing to any services. Or just call police for assistance.
• 3:57 p.m. Irene Berberena, 28, of 102 Newbury St., Danvers, was arrested, following a report of a fight at the Extended Stay Hotel. She was charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon (a knife). See related story.
• 4:33 p.m. Report of a shoplifting at the CVS at Endicott Plaza. Police said a person stole some baby formula and diapers and was gone before officers arrived.
• 6:55 p.m. Report of an attempted larceny at the CVS on Maple Street. Police said two males grabbed cologne, but then dropped the merchandise and left the store after being confronted.
• 7:22 p.m. An officer responded to a report of road rage between two female motorists, aged 41 and 30, at the intersection of Sylvan and Federal streets. He said there were "finger motions" made and verbal unpleasantries exchanged due to one woman allegedly cutting the other one off, but the altercation did not escalate any further.

Sunday, April 7

• 10:04 a.m. Report of a motor vehicle accident with personal injuries on Route 114. State police handled the incident and no further details were available.
• 2:30 p.m. Jason Diskin, 18, of 18 Appaloosa Ln., South Hamilton, was arrested, following a report of a shoplifter at Walmart. Police said he allegedly stole some lights that were valued at $45 and he was charged with one count of shoplifting.

For questions on this log, email danvers@patch.com.