Dagsboro man arrested for pocketing $30K in home improvement fraud scheme
Dagsboro, DE – A Dagsboro man is facing felony charges after allegedly taking $30,000 for construction work he never completed, according to Delaware State Police.
James Gustafson, Jr., 45, was arrested this week after a nearly year-long investigation into a home improvement fraud case that began in November. Police say Gustafson entered into a contract with a 60-year-old victim to perform construction work, accepted a $30,000 payment, and then failed to complete any of the agreed-upon work. The victim was not reimbursed.
A warrant was issued for Gustafson’s arrest following the investigation. On September 24, he was taken into custody by the Ocean View Police Department and handed over to Delaware State Police. He was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 2 and released on his own recognizance.
Gustafson has been charged with one felony count of Home Improvement Fraud by False Pretense – $1,500 or greater. Police believe he may have defrauded other victims in a similar fashion and are encouraging anyone with information to contact Delaware State Police Troop 4 Financial Crimes Unit.
The investigation remains active.
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Key Points
- James Gustafson, Jr., 45, is accused of taking $30,000 for home improvement work he never completed
- He was arrested on September 24 and charged with felony home improvement fraud
- Police urge potential additional victims to come forward with information
