Scam Type
Counterfeit Product Scam
Business Name Used
Demolition
Date Reported
November 02, 2023
Postal Code
23454
Total Dollars Lost
$ 4750
Scam Description
Daniel Painter was referred to me to demolish a home that belonged to my grandparents who raised me. The relative that lived in the home was not able to take care of it so the home was deemed unsafe and unlivable by the city. I acquired the deed and was able to allow my relative to live with family and eventually a nursing home. Daniel Painter sent me a contract on 8/25/2022 that indicated he could do the job for $9700. That was the best offer so I accepted. He requested half down and said the job would be completed by October 2022. I sent him and his secretary Marilyn Degmetich $4750 via ZELLE through my bank, Bank of America. Daniel did not start the job so the Code Enforcement Officer contacted him and told him everything he needed to do. He gave one excuse after another of why he could not begin the job. On May 10, 2023 Daniel had not started the job but sent me a message that he was too busy with other jobs and will refund my money. As of November 2, 2023 Daniel Painter has not refunded my money and refuses to show up for court because he cannot be found. Even though I would text him a copy of the warrant in debt, he refused to show up for court. However his most up to date address is included in this complaint, 1411 Leigh Street Apt. B2, Norfolk, VA 23507. My new court date is November 20, 2023 at 8:30 AM. Because he has reneged on the contract, the city of Virginia Beach, VA had to hire a contractor and now I have to pay $11,000 by February 2024. Through research, Daniel has done this to countless people, and needs to be stopped before he does this again. I need my money, $4750, to help me pay the city back. The contract that was sent to me through his secretary Marilyn Degmetich has a fake address on it. I have tried to contact her and she refuses to respond. Apparently she is part of the scam.
