On February 3, 2010, Polk County Sheriff’s deputies arrested two men known as “traveling scam artists” after investigation revealed they were doing faulty home repairs and paving work in Polk County and other jurisdictions.

Sheriff Judd issues another warning to citizens that traveling scam artists like these are still out there.

“If someone approaches you offering to fix anything on your home, or to re-pave your driveway, check all of their credentials, verify they are employed with a legitimate business, and ensure they have the proper licensing,” says Sheriff Judd. “Use the Better Business Bureau website www.bbb.org, or check with the Polk County Tax Collectors at 534-4700. If a company is operating in Polk County, they are required to have an Occupational License.”

This most recent warning comes as a result of Polk County Sheriff’s detectives spotting several men from out-of-state driving around the Lakeland area, attempting to solicit paving work from residents and local businesses on a cash payment basis. The traveling scam artists were stopped by detectives and informed that they are now under investigation by PCSO and the Lakeland Police Department. The men were told to leave the county, and if they are caught committing fraudulent work in Polk County, they will immediately be arrested for fraud.

If you or someone you know has been the victim of fraudulent paving work or home repairs, please contact local law enforcement immediately.