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William P. Rogers, of Lagrangeville, New York, has been charged with first-degree larceny after allegedly accepting $265,000 for several home improvements he never started, according to Connecticut State Police.
In April 2023, a New Fairfield homeowner hired Rogers, of Valley Home Renovations, for a major project. The job included structural improvements, a new kitchen, a roof, a garage, and a stormwater management system. Rogers quoted the work at $863,000 and required a $265,000 deposit 30 days before starting. The homeowner paid, but construction never began, State Police said.
When questioned, Rogers claimed town officials hadn’t issued the necessary permits and were dragging their feet. Police said he never submitted the required paperwork and was gaslighting the homeowner.
Months after work was supposed to have begun, the homeowner met with Rogers on Oct. 22, 2023, to demand answers. Rogers attempted to call his attorney to show he had been working, but the lawyer yelled at him for interrupting his dinner. Rogers became upset, stood up from the table, and said "Look at what I'm dealing with ... I'm out," the police report said.
When the homeowner asked for a refund, Roger became hostile and told them that wasn't happening. "I don't have the money," he allegedly told them. "I got $13 in my pocket. Do what you have to do."
When they threatened to sue him for the cash, Rogers reportedly told the homeowner, “Bring it on," per the police report.
Days later, Rogers told the homeowner he was quitting the project on his attorney’s advice. He ignored all further refund requests.
Police found no evidence Rogers did any work or hired subcontractors, as he claimed. While he provided estimates for materials, he had no receipts showing purchases, authorities said.
Rogers was arrested earlier this month and is being held on a $100,000 bond, police said.
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