A four-month undercover investigation in Hillsborough County has culminated in the arrests of 50 individuals operating as unlicensed contractors, targeting vulnerable residents still attempting to rebuild their homes following recent severe storms.
Dubbed “Operation Bad Builder,” the multi-month sting was launched by undercover detectives with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office who secured a residential location in Riverview to pose as homeowners seeking various repair services. Between June 1 and October 2, investigators monitored and responded to online advertisements, specifically homing in on individuals who had previously faced complaints regarding incomplete or substandard work.
Among those taken into custody were individuals with extensive criminal records. Authorities confirmed that 18 of the arrested suspects are in the country illegally. Detectives met with 56-year-old Steven Andreassen during the operation, leading to his arrest for performing electrical work without a license. Records show Andreassen was previously arrested in June for domestic battery by strangulation, alongside prior out-of-state arrests involving kidnapping, robbery, sexual battery, drug offenses, and assault with a deadly weapon on a government official.
Another suspect, Calvin Wilson, had quoted a homeowner $14,000 for heating and air conditioning work, requiring half of the payment upfront. Wilson had previously been arrested for the same offense in Pinellas County and is a convicted felon whose past record includes robbery, grand theft, and aggravated battery. Sheriff’s officials have not yet released total monetary damage estimates tied to complaints filed prior to the sting.
Law enforcement officials noted that the surge in demand for construction services across Florida has created a fertile environment for unscrupulous operators preying on storm victims. Unlicensed contractors frequently lure desperate homeowners by promising immediate project starts while bypassing mandatory permit delays and lengthy inspection processes.
Sheriff Chad Chronister explained during a news conference that investigators actively sought out suspects who had advertised online. “This is people we went out online, we did our research and found that they were unlicensed, invited them to come provide a quote,” Chronister said, noting that some targets had already generated county complaints for stealing money, performing shoddy work, or abandoning projects altogether.
Officials warned that hiring unlicensed individuals introduces severe safety hazards into residential properties, frequently leaving victims facing drained bank accounts and unfinished construction. Licensed professionals are required to undergo rigorous testing to verify their trade skills before undertaking home repairs.
Industry representatives reinforced the warnings. Richard Cranker, business manager of the UA Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union 123, advised residents to secure proof of insurance and insist that contractors obtain proper permits. Unlicensed operators often entice clients by claiming they can bypass bureaucratic hurdles, telling homeowners they do not need permits or inspections and emphasizing major financial savings.
Authorities urge residents to avoid booking home repairs through social media or unverified online advertisements. Homeowners are advised to request written contracts, verify trade licenses directly through MyFloridaLicense.com before hiring, avoid paying full balances upfront, and immediately walk away from suspicious situations.
