Contractor arrested for fraud after failing to repair flood-dama - WAFB 9 News Baton Rouge, Louisiana News, Weather, Sports

A Baton Rouge contractor has been arrested after, authorities say, he took payment to repair a flood-damaged roof, but never actually did the work.

On December 29, 2016, a female victim contacted the Baton Rouge Police Department reporting a theft of $4,200. She told police Melvin Hendricks, 47, of New Orleans, had agreed to replace her entire roof, which was affected by the historic flooding in Baton Rouge, for $5,600.

On October 24, 2016, the victim gave Hendricks a check for $4,200 to start the project and purchase materials.

She told police that was the last time she spoke with Hendricks. She said she attempted to call and send text messages to him, to which she never received a response.

The victim was able to provide to police a payment receipt given to her by Hendricks which reflected the agreed upon amount of $5,600 and the $4,200 payment.

On March 17, Hendricks was arrested on the charge of home improvement fraud and theft. He was booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison and is being held on a $15,000 bond.

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