Detectives have issued a warrant after allegedly stealing over $10,000 from a woman after he said he would fix her pool which was damaged by Hurricane Ian in Punta Gorda.
On Nov. 14, 2022, Charlotte County deputies say Tommie Jenkins, 44, entered a written contract with the victim to replace her pool screen cage.
In the contract, Jenkins agreed to install a screen room at the rear of the victim's home with three doors for a total cost of $27,750 including all labor and materials.
Jenkins reportedly required a deposit of $13,875 at the signing of the contract. The victim paid the amount with a check that Jenkins deposited in his bank.
The contract was signed by both parties.
On July 12, 2023, detectives received a complaint from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations which was filed by the victim.
Jenkins received a notice to cease and desist for working as a contractor without an official license.
Detectives met with the victim and told them that she met with Jenkins through an unknown person who approached her at the Punta Gorda Airport and told her that he knew someone who could replace her damaged pool cage.
Jenkins initially removed her pool cage for $3,500 in total. Reports say the victim was happy with the work he did.
That's when the two entered the contract to replace the whole cage.
The victim says she made several attempts to contact Jenkins after providing him with the check. Reports say Jenkins texted the victim that he would refund the money.
Though he said he would refund the victim, Jenkins never did. Text messages show Jenkins told the victim to stop texting him "before I press charges on your (expletive) for harassment."
As of September, Jenkins nor the company he does business with have applied for a permit to replace the pool cage.
State law states that if a contractor fails to complete work, then a refund must be issued.
Jenkins reportedly failed to apply for a permit or terminate the contract.
Detectives say Jenkins knowingly committed grand theft. A warrant has been issued for Jenkins for grand theft over $750 and larceny, which are both third-degree felonies.