WEST CHESTER, PA — On Wednesday, November 22, 2023, West Chester Police responded to a distress call from the 100 block of W. Union St., West Chester Borough. A 20-year-old woman reported being sexually assaulted by a contractor soliciting for home repair work.
The victim alleged that the contractor, identified as 22-year-old James McDonagh, entered her residence under the guise of conducting repairs and subsequently sexually assaulted her. Despite her protests, the perpetrator continued the assault. The victim managed to provide the police with a flyer from the business, which included the contact number of the alleged assailant.
Upon receiving the report, West Chester Police contacted the number on the flyer, requesting to meet with the contractor. Unaware of the police involvement, McDonagh and his associate, 27-year-old John Michael Delaney, both UK nationals, arrived at the agreed location expecting to meet a potential customer. Instead, they were met by officers and taken into custody.
McDonagh and Delaney were reportedly soliciting work for Everest Roofing & Masonry, a company based in Jersey City, NJ. However, investigations suggest that the business does not exist, leading to suspicions that the pair were defrauding residents by promising home repairs that would never be carried out.
James McDonagh was charged with aggravated indecent assault and indecent assault, with his arrest recorded under Police Report ID# WC-23-36192. His associate, John Delaney, was charged with deceptive business practices and motor vehicle violations. Both men were transported to Chester County Prison.
This incident serves as a stark reminder for residents to exercise caution when dealing with contractors, particularly those who solicit door-to-door. It is always advisable to verify the legitimacy of any business and the credentials of its representatives before allowing them access to your home.
The West Chester Police Department has requested that anyone with additional information about this case, or who may have had dealings with Everest Roofing & Masonry, come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.
Information, a criminal complaint, or an arrest is not a declaration of guilt. A suspect, arrestee, or defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.