MILFORD, DE — Delaware State Police have arrested Steven Rowan, 36, of Milford, Delaware, on charges related to new home construction fraud. The arrest follows a complaint from a Virginia couple who reported being victims of home improvement fraud.
The investigation began on July 28, 2023, when the couple, aged 71 and 79, contacted State Police. They reported that Rowan, the owner of Sussex Building LLC, had entered into a contract with them in January 2022 to construct a new home in the Milton area. Despite paying a significant advance, the couple saw no commencement of construction, non-fulfillment of the contract, and no reimbursement of their funds. This led to detectives obtaining warrants for Rowan’s arrest.
Rowan turned himself in on January 18, 2024, at Troop 4. He faces several charges:
- Theft over $100,000 with the victim being 62 years or older, a felony.
- New home construction fraud by false pretense over $100,000, also a felony.
- Engaging in a contract business without obtaining or maintaining a license.
Following his arraignment by Justice of the Peace Court 2, Rowan was released on a $120,100 unsecured bond. This case highlights the ongoing issue of elder exploitation and fraud in the realm of home construction and improvement.