Published on: Thursday, December 29, 2011

By Daryl Buchanan

Montgomery County Police officers are searching for additional victims and a suspect in connection to a number of home improvement scams.
Montgomery County Police say Karl Leroy Davis, 42, from the 1000 block of Woods Place in Alexandria, Virginia, has been charged with several crimes including theft over $1,000, failing to perform a contract, operating without a license, and theft scheme over $1,000.
According to police Davis would meet a customer, discuss the planned work, enter a written contract, and obtain a check once the contract was signed. Davis would then cash the check and not perform any of the work he promised. Victim’s attempts to contact Davis have gone unanswered.
Police believe there may be more victims who have been scammed by Davis and are not aware of it. Anyone with knowledge of Karl Davis or if they believe they are victims of his scams should contact Officer Hedgepeth of the Montgomery County Police 4th District at 240-773-5500.

Montgomery County Police say homeowners can protect themselves by taking the following steps:
• Requesting to see a Maryland Home Improvement Commission License
• Requesting proof of insurance
• Asking for references

• Consulting the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection
• Get 3 estimates from licensed firms
• Never pay more than one third of the contracted amount
• Have a written contract that specifics what items will be used

• Have a written contract that specifics what items will be used
• Do a “Google” search of the company