Friday, 07 November 2008 00:00

Undercover Investigation

slide3.pngAmador County District Attorney Todd Riebe announced the arrests of ten people in connection with an undercover investigation of alleged unlicensed contracting. Last Thursday, investigators posed as homeowners and invited bids on home improvement projects at a sting house in Jackson. The multi-agency operation included investigators from the Contractors State License Board, Jackson Police Department, Amador County Sheriff’s Office, and the Amador County District Attorney’s Office. Among those arrested was Bruce “Buddy” White of B&G Heat and Air, whose contractor’s license is currently suspended and who has a pending criminal jury trial in Amador County Superior Court involving alleged diversion of construction funds and embezzlement by a contractor. Each count of contracting without a license and unlawful advertising is a misdemeanor and is punishable by up to six months in jail and/or a 1,000 dollar fine for the first offense. All contractors who perform work that is valued at 500 dollars or more including labor and materials must be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. To report unlicensed contracting activity or someone committing fraud, call the Contractors State License Board SWIFT Unit in Sacramento at (916) 255-2924 or the Amador County District Attorney’s Office at (209) 223-6444. Staff Report