North Port: Local builder arrested for fraud and misappropriation of funds

 

 

 

North Port: Local builder arrested for fraud and misappropriation of funds

 
 
NPPD
 
After months of investigating, the North Port Police Department filed charges and arrested James Michael Willis (52), owner of Elk Ridge Custom Homes of North Port. He is charged with multiple felonies, including Scheming to Defraud and Misappropriation of Construction funds. There are currently 13 victims in this case with an impact of at least $130,000. Scheming to Defraud is a first degree felony. Misappropriation of Construction funds is a second degree felony.
 
In some cases Mr. Willis would collect funds, pull the permits, and do little to no work. In other cases, he would collect the funds, never apply for the correct permits, and do no work. The company filed for bankruptcy in December of 2019, continuing to collect large down payments in the months leading up to filing.

 

There may be more victims out there. If you believe you may be victim, please contact the North Port Police Department at 941-429-7300.