In a strategic move to safeguard Florida residents, more than three dozen unlicensed contractors were arrested in an undercover operation executed by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, the Clearwater Police Department, and other agencies.
Sheriff Bob Gualtieri explained that these arrests aim to protect the community from fraudulent activities and hazardous, unauthorized work. The sheriff remarked, “The majority of ‘em — they’re not even from here. They’re coming in from outside the area to exploit our residents and our businesses.”
This recent operation in Clearwater is not an isolated incident. The sheriff’s department had previously apprehended numerous unlicensed contractors in Madeira Beach just two weeks ago. The prevalence of such activities has made enforcement efforts appear like “shooting fish in a barrel,” according to Gualtieri, due to the high frequency of violations.
Chief Eric Gandy of the Clearwater Police Department revealed that one of the unlicensed individuals was on the verge of executing a $200,000 project. Alarmingly, another was misleading clients by advertising demolition services while also performing electrical work without the necessary qualifications.
Sheriff Gualtieri anticipates that the number of arrests from the Clearwater bust could surpass 40. Among those already detained, six are identified as undocumented immigrants, with one individual already undergoing deportation proceedings at the time of arrest.
Residents are encouraged to verify contractor licenses through official channels, such as the website www.pinellas.gov/contractor, or by contacting the county’s Consumer Protection department.
The crackdown on unlicensed contractors underscores the ongoing efforts of local law enforcement to protect citizens from deceitful practices. By enforcing strict regulations, officials aim to ensure the safety and integrity of construction work in the community.
Source: ABC Action News
