New Orleans police say a man posing as a contractor convinced an elderly homeowner to pay for work that was never done, then disappeared, and now detectives want the public’s help to track him down. Investigators are treating the incident as theft by fraud and are urging neighbors to comb through doorbell and security camera footage for anything that might show the suspect.
Police release description and ask for tips
The suspect has been identified as Raychel Jefferson, described as a Black male about 5'9" and 155 pounds, and a warrant for theft by fraud is on file, according to the New Orleans Police Department. Investigators say the alleged scam happened on Wednesday, June 3, in the 1000 block of Horace Street, where the victim reportedly handed over payment for work that never happened.
As reported by WDSU, detectives say Jefferson posed as a contractor to persuade the elderly homeowner to pay for the job, then failed to carry it out. Police have released a photo of the suspect and are asking neighbors to review any doorbell or home-security video in case Jefferson was captured on camera. WDSU notes that the basic details of the case come from a police bulletin issued by investigators.
How to avoid contractor scams
Consumer protection officials say schemes like this often start with an unexpected knock on the door and a pitch to quickly fix a roof, driveway or yard, usually with pressure to pay up front or grab a “limited time” deal. The Federal Trade Commission recommends checking that any contractor is properly licensed, getting written estimates and a contract that clearly lists materials and projected completion dates, and avoiding full payment until the job is finished. The FTC also advises checking references, consulting the Better Business Bureau and contacting local licensing offices to cut down the risk of fraud.
What to do if you were approached
If you or a family member were approached by someone claiming to be a contractor and you suspect you may have been defrauded, officials say you should hang on to any receipts, text messages, emails or video footage and contact police, as advised by the New Orleans Police Department. Fourth District detectives can be reached at 504-658-6040. Anonymous tips can be submitted through CrimeStoppers of Greater New Orleans at 504-822-1111 or toll-free at 1-877-903-STOP. NOPD’s public affairs office is available at [email protected] for questions or corrections, and residents who discover relevant surveillance footage are urged to preserve it for investigators.
