In a recent scandal, Shane Lac, an unlicensed contractor in Cape Coral, Florida, has been arrested for grand theft after allegedly scamming multiple clients and subcontractors.
Lac is accused of taking upfront deposits from clients and subcontractors for home remodeling projects and then disappearing without completing the work. This incident highlights the importance of verifying contractor licenses and references before hiring.
Details of the Scam
Shane Lac was operating as a remodeling contractor in Cape Coral, taking large deposits from clients with promises of completing various home improvement projects.
Many clients reported that they paid as much as 50% upfront, only for Lac to disappear without finishing the jobs. Lac is also accused of hiring subcontractors for projects and not paying them for their work, leaving them out of pocket for thousands of dollars.
Victim Testimonies
Christian Christie, owner of Advantage Electric in North Fort Myers, is one of the subcontractors scammed by Lac. Christie stated that Lac hired him for several projects but never paid him the $6,600 he was owed.
Lac allegedly used various excuses, such as having cancer or a partner stealing his money, to avoid payment before ultimately disappearing.
Arrest and Charges
Shane Lac has been arrested and charged with grand theft. He is now behind bars, but many victims, including homeowners and subcontractors, are left wondering if they will ever recover their lost money. Lac’s arrest brings some relief to his victims, but the financial damage remains significant.
Impact on the Community
Matt Sinclair, president of the Cape Coral Construction Association and a member of the city’s construction licensing board, emphasized that unlicensed contractors are a rampant problem in Florida.
Sinclair advises homeowners to be cautious and conduct thorough checks before hiring contractors. He warns that having an official logo and office space does not guarantee legitimacy.
Prevention Tips
To avoid falling victim to unlicensed contractor scams, experts recommend the following steps:
- Verify Licenses: Always check a contractor’s business license and ensure it is valid and up-to-date.
- Request References: Contact past clients for references and inquire about their experiences.
- Limit Deposits: Avoid paying more than 10% of the total project cost as a deposit at the signing of a contract.
- Research Thoroughly: Look up the contractor’s reputation online and read reviews from other clients.
Resources for Verification
For those looking to hire contractors, several resources are available to verify licenses and credentials. Websites such as the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation provide tools to check the licensing status of contractors.
Additionally, local construction associations and licensing boards can offer guidance and support.
Conclusion
Shane Lac’s arrest serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with hiring unlicensed contractors. By taking proactive steps to verify credentials and request references, homeowners can protect themselves from similar scams.
As Lac awaits legal proceedings, his victims hope for justice and a resolution to their financial losses.
