HARRISBURG, PA — An Ohio contractor is facing felony charges after investigators say he allegedly defrauded Erie County homeowners out of more than $80,000.
Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced that 69-year-old Kenneth Miller of Lewis Center, Ohio, was arraigned Friday on charges of theft by deception, deceptive business practices, and home improvement fraud.
According to investigators, Miller allegedly accepted more than $80,000 in deposits from four homeowners for home improvement projects between November 2023 and May 2024.
Authorities said the agreements were made with homeowners in Corry and Erie, where Miller allegedly told customers their initial deposits would be used to purchase materials for the projects.
According to the Office of Attorney General, the investigation determined that Miller allegedly did not use the funds to purchase materials after depositing the checks.
Investigators reported the money was instead allegedly used to pay credit card bills, legal fees for a divorce attorney, jewelry purchases, automobile services, and large cash withdrawals.
Authorities also allege Miller did not return to the homeowners’ residences to perform the agreed-upon work.
According to investigators, two of the victims were over the age of 60.
Officials reported that Miller’s bail was set at $100,000 and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 16.
The case is being prosecuted by Senior Deputy Attorney General Brandon Bingle.
All suspects, arrestees, and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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