Oklahoma Attorney General files additional embezzlement charges against contractor after more victims come forward

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – Legal professional Basic John O’Connor has filed further expenses in Oklahoma County in opposition to a contractor who allegedly obtained hundreds of {dollars} from prospects across the Sooner State in change for building tasks he by no means accomplished.

In November 2021, the Oklahoma Legal professional Basic’s Workplace Shopper Safety Unit started investigating a shopper fraud case involving Michael Hanson, 42, doing enterprise as Leaders Development LLC, after receiving a number of complaints.

On account of that investigation, Hanson was charged with 9 counts of Embezzlement and one depend of Sample of Felony Offenses.

Following the submitting of these expenses, a further 12 victims contacted the Legal professional Basic’s Workplace with complaints much like these of the primary 9 victims.

Now, Hanson is charged with 21 counts of Embezzlement and one depend of Sample of Felony Offense.

“After we see a sample of legal habits, as with this case, there are usually extra victims than those who first got here to us,” stated Legal professional Basic O’Connor. “I encourage anybody who falls sufferer to contractor fraud to contact my workplace instantly. We are going to do every thing we will to get your a reimbursement and prosecute the people committing the crimes.”

Investigators allege Hanson used his firm, Leaders Development LLC, to solicit prospects, who wanted concrete or fencing work. He required partial funds up entrance. He then refused to finish the tasks. He additionally refused to refund the owners’ funds.

Authorities say, in all, Hanson stole $140,927.51 from the 21 victims.

The investigation uncovered allegations of fraud courting again to April 2021.

“With the summer time building and storm seasons underway, it’s important for customers to be on guard in opposition to scammers and unscrupulous companies trying to make a fast revenue,” stated Legal professional Basic O’Connor. “Shoppers who’re in want of repairs ought to search out native firms which might be established locally, get a number of written estimates, rigorously test references, and be much more cautious if requested for a considerable up-front fee.”  

The Legal professional Basic encourages customers who consider they’ve been a sufferer of contractor fraud to file a criticism by calling the Shopper Safety Unit at 1-833-681-1895.