Bogus contractors caught in Fresno-Madera county sting

Seven men in Fresno and Madera counties operating as contractors without a license were caught in a sting operation launched by the Contractors State License Board.

The board’s fraud team compiled a list of unlicensed contractors by searching Craigslist, Facebook and fliers and posed as homeowners who needed various types of services. The bogus contractors were cited after making bids ranging from $1,000 to $2,500. A board spokesman said a contractor license is required for all projects costing $500 or more for labor and materials combined.

Those cited face fines up to $5,000 and a possible six months in jail. A second conviction can result in a mandatory 90 days in jail and the penalties increase with each additional violation.

The offenders were ordered to appear in Fresno County Superior Court on March 15.

Homeowners and others dealing with contractors are urged always to check for a license before hiring a contractor.

This story was originally published February 1, 2018 at 2:02 PM with the headline "Bogus contractors caught in Fresno-Madera county sting."