TRUMBULL, CT — A 44-year-old Trumbull man was arrested on a first-degree larceny charge this month, after Fairfield police said he took more than $42,000 in payments from a homeowner but never did the home repairs he was contracted to do.
In addition to the felony larceny charge, Arthur Arekhau, owner of American House LLC, was also charged with violation of a home improvement contract, a misdemeanor, when he was arrested on Sept. 15.
The Fairfield homeowner had contracted with Arekhau's company for exterior siding and window renovations, according to Fairfield Police Sgt. Jenna Wellington.
"The homeowner paid the company three deposits totaling $42,333 for work that was expected to be completed by March 2026," Wellington told Patch. "The investigation determined that the work was never started, and the homeowner did not receive the materials or a refund."
Additionally, Fairfield police confirmed with the town's Building Department that permits had not been obtained for the contracted work, according to Wellington.
Arekhau was released after posting bond on bail of $35,000.
American House LLC is a registered business in Connecticut, and its status is "active," according to Business.CT.Gov. Records indicate it is overdue for an annual report, which was supposed to have been filed on March 31.
When reached by Patch on Wednesday for comment, Arekhau said he is "working with the client to pay him back" the full amount.
"I'm selling my house and will get the money to pay him back," Arekhau said, adding that he is also working with lawyers to resolve the criminal matter.
Arekhau's next scheduled court date is set for Oct. 30 in Bridgeport Superior Court.
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