37-year-old David King of Winter Garden had a window replacement scheme, but Polk County detectives saw right through it. 

King stole $7,961.60 from a 71-year-old Davenport woman, who contracted with him to purchase and install new windows in her house. King, doing business as “Window King Direct,” took the money and then stopped communicating with the woman. He never obtained permits and deputies determined he never had any intention of buying or installing windows. Deputies charged him with scheming to defraud, grand theft, contracting without a license, and failure to secure workers’ compensation insurance.

“I encourage homeowners to do their homework when hiring a contractor to do work at your home—there are too many scam artists and scofflaws out there. Please get recommendations from friends and family members who have had a positive experience with a contractor. On line reviews can be helpful, but reviews on the internet can be faked. Find someone who has experience doing work you are looking for, interview and get quotes from several contractors, and get your quotes and a contract in writing. And check with Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation to verify a contractor's license by visiting their website at www.myfloridalicense.com or calling 850-487-1395. A little homework in advance will potentially save a lot of heartache.” –Grady Judd, Sheriff