On 9/25/05, Investigators of the Tulare County District Attorney’s Bureau of Investigation Consumer’s Fraud Unit and the Contractors State License Board apprehended and cited nine representatives of businesses that failed to have proper licensing and proper advertising, at the Visalia 4th Annual Home Expo. The event, held at the Visalia Convention Center, was visited by thousands of local homeowners and shoppers.

Undercover agents, posing as customers, contacted all the home improvement exhibitors over the three-day period and noted problems with some local and other California businesses. Agents, during this effort, discovered that these businesses were providing monetary estimates, or bids, for construction related work without the proper credentials. On Sunday, the suspects were contacted and issued Misdemeanor Notices to Appear for Unlicensed Contracting and Illegal Advertisement.

Prior to the Home Expo Show dates, Sponsors of the Home Expo, Showcase Events, expressed their desire to work with the Tulare County District Attorneys Office and C.S.L.B. and provide an atmosphere where consumers can “Shop with Confidence.” Working together toward this goal, over 160 businesses were examined and found to be without problems. During the course of the show, informational booths, with representatives of the CSLB, TCDA, and the BBB, provided protective information and literature to both businessman and consumers.

Citations were issued to the following individuals:

1. Trent Michael Jones, 38 yrs, Grass Creations, Springville

2. Mark Francis Wentworth, 49 yrs, Eclipse, Tulare

3. James Edward Lewis, 58 yrs, Shade Tree Deck and Patio Canopies, Cameron Park

4. Michael William Meyer, 53 yrs, Clear View of Central Valley, Fresno

5. Mark Eugene Brandon, 53 yrs, Phantom Screens, Hanford

6. Jason Samuel Duran Guerra, 31 yrs, Jaymins, Reedley

7. Llewelyn Carl Elkins, 62 yrs, Pool & Spa Center, Visalia

8. Robert Paul Imondi, 59 yrs, Dream Screens, Tustin

9. Pete David Iltis, 36 yrs, American Interiors, Clovis

For additional information:

Contact: Carol Turner, Assistant District Attorney 559-733 6411
Tulare County District Attorney’s Office
Show Case Events -- Contact: Steve Tarter (800) 700-7469