The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 28-year-old Nelson Jeovany Hernandez Gonzalez, who is accused of fraudulently using a business account to purchase and resell paint supplies to contractors. According to reports, Gonzalez spent a total of $4,746.31 on a business charge account at a Sherwin Williams store in Port Charlotte.
Detectives discovered that Gonzalez was reselling the paint at lower prices to other contractors, raising suspicions during their investigation. Furthermore, authorities found evidence that Gonzalez attempted similar fraudulent purchases in Lee County; however, local stores there refused to sell him the large quantities of paint he was trying to acquire.
The CCSO has issued a warning about an increase in contractor scams in Charlotte County, particularly following major storms or damaging events. Scammers typically place large orders for construction materials using stolen credit cards, hiring courier services to pick up the items before the fraudulent charges are discovered.
Gonzalez’s case is just one of many examples of such scams that have been reported in the area recently. Deputies continue to urge the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to contractor services.