LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – A Las Vegas contractor was arrested Wednesday after being found guilty of stealing more than $250,000 from homeowners.
The Nevada Contractors Board announced the arrest of Gabriel Raymundo Adame, owner of Adame Construction, on Thursday. Adame’s license was revoked on January 29 after the board found him guilty of fraudulent construction activities, which resulted in 21 complaints from previous customers.
An investigation into Adame’s company found that he would consistently charge homeowners massive down payments from home remodeling projects before any work was performed. Many of his victims were found to be senior citizens, which increased any penalties Adame would receive under state law.
“We expect the arrest of Mr. Adame to continue to set a strong tone for the industry that we will remain vigilant in our efforts to bring unlawful and unscrupulous contractors to justice, whether you hold a license or not,” said Deputy Executive Officer David Behar. “Consumers should have confidence when hiring a licensed contractor that they are abiding by the law and performing to the industry standards – anything less will be investigated when brought to our attention.”
His current charges include the following:
- Theft of $65,000 Cat B Felony – Senior homeowner
- Theft of $32,269.19 Cat B Felony – Senior homeowner
- Theft of $90,180.00 Cat B Felony – Senior homeowner
- Theft of $60,034.97 Cat B Felony
- Theft of $5202.80 Cat C Felony – Senior homeowner
One of Adame’s victims was U.S. Army Veteran Adrian Pitts, who lost $65,000 over an incomplete project.
“We cannot thank the Nevada State Contractors Board for their help,” said Pitts. “Adame and his crew hurt a lot of people; he stole one couple’s entire life savings, so, he needs to pay for what he did.”
The Nevada State Contractors Board reminds anyone thinking of hiring a contractor to:
- Always hire a licensed contractor. You can verify the license here.
- Get three bids and make sure the project is within the same scope.
- Remember that down payments are required by law to be no more than 10 percent of the total project cost or $1,000; whichever is less.
- Obtain a written contract and do not sign anything until you completely understand the terms.
- Ensure your payments align with work performed and keep a record of all payment receipts.
- Do not make a final payment until you are satisfied with the job.
- Never pay in cash as it is difficult to track and often proves the exchange of funds.
- Save all paperwork related to the project for at least four years.
“It is important consumers remember the value of hiring a licensed contractor,” said Behar. “While it may not guarantee a perfect project from start to finish, it affords you four years of protection to seek recourse if something goes wrong, and you remain eligible for the Residential Recovery Fund, which may award up to $40,000 for damages incurred.”
Consumers can always call to verify a contractor’s license or to file a complaint. If you have any questions, call at 702-486-1100 or visit www.nscb.nv.gov
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