Tree-Cutting Scam Suspect Arrested

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA — A man accused of scamming Gwinnett County victims with phony tree-cutting services has been arrested, the sheriff's office said Thursday.

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Andrew Mosley, of Flowery Branch, was wanted on 13 misdemeanor counts and one felony count of theft by conversion.

He was arrested Wednesday in Hall County, the sheriff's office said.

Since at least last December, police say, Mosley has been going around posing as a legitimate tree cutting and removal service under different company names.

After receiving half or full payment for jobs, Mosley would not do any of the work or would leave jobs partially done, according to Gwinnett County Police.

His 14 victims have included several elderly people in their 70s and 80s, police said.

Detectives believe he has stolen about $9,000 from his victims. They are working with multiple local law enforcement agencies, and say they expect more victims to come forward.

Mosley has done business under the names B&M Tree Services, Mosley Tree Service and United Tree Service, police said.

To avoid being scammed by a fake company, citizens should check the Georgia Secretary of State's website to verify a company's existence, authorities say. With tree work, they should ask the owner if the service is bonded and insured and ask to see proof of insurance.

Also, customers should make sure to get a contractual agreement that spells out exactly what work is going to be performed and for what cost.

Photos courtesy Gwinnett County Police Department, Sheriff's Office