Cinnaminson Contractor Who Scammed Seniors To Pay $442K, Shutter Business: AG

SOUTH JERSEY — A South Jersey home contractor accused of defrauding customers agreed to pay a $442,000 settlement and shutter his business, state officials said Thursday.

The settlement stems from a lawsuit brought last fall by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, accusing South Jersey Home Contracting (SJHC), LLC of scamming 13 different customers. Eleven of them are "senior citizens" 60 years or older, according to the AG's office.

James C. Barreras, Jr. — a Cinnaminson resident who owns the Woodbury-based business — agreed Sept. 10 to the penalties, according to the consent order.

The state's complaint included a litany of allegations against the home remodeler, including failure to complete contracted-for work after accepting payments. SJHC also refused to issue refunds for unperformed work and failed to pay its subcontractors, despite accepting customer payments for the subcontractors' labor, the AG's office said.

Additionally, SJHC imposed charges and fees that weren't included in the contract price, authorities said.

Per the settlement, SJHC and Barreras must pay $257,000 in restitution to the 13 customers, along with a $185,000 civil penalty. Barreras must also dissolve the company by the end of the year.

SJHC's Home Improvement Contractor registration with the state has been permanently revoked under the legal agreement.

"Consumers who spend money on home improvements have every right to believe they are making sound investments that will add value to their property," said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. "The settlement announced (Thursday) not only puts this company out of business, it provides meaningful financial relief to consumers harmed by the unconscionable conduct of the business and its owner."

Barreras and his company violated the Consumer Fraud Act, the Contractor Registration Act, and the Regulations Governing Home Improvement Practices, according to the lawsuit. New Jersey's Consumer Fraud Act — the state's primary consumer-protection law — enhances penalties for violations against senior citizens.