Oklahoma Man Arrested for $30,000 Theft in Florida Posing as Contractor

In a recent incident that left a Florida homeowner stunned, an Oklahoma man found himself behind bars after impersonating a licensed contractor and allegedly stealing $30,000. According to the authorities, Michael Shannon Key is facing charges of unlicensed contracting during a state of emergency and grand theft. His alleged crime unfolded in Fort Myers, Florida, shortly after Hurricane Ian wreaked havoc last year.

The Deceptive Scheme

The Fort Myers Police Department disclosed that Key cunningly offered mold removal services to local residents without the necessary state licensing. He swiftly arrived in the city following the hurricane's devastating aftermath. However, his actions took a more sinister turn as he purportedly vanished to his hometown in Oklahoma after pocketing a substantial payment.

A Costly Deception

"Key took a thirty-thousand-dollar payment from at least one resident of Fort Myers to fix their hurricane-flood-damaged home, then fled the state to his hometown [sic] of Oklahoma," stated the Fort Myers Police Department in a press release. Their investigation also revealed that Key had a troubling history, including previous allegations of unlicensed contracting, fraud, and embezzlement.

Facing the Consequences

Key's misdeeds did not go unnoticed. He was promptly arrested and incarcerated in Tulsa County Jail. Subsequently, he will be extradited to Lee County, Florida, to face the legal consequences of his actions.

Seeking Additional Victims

Law enforcement agencies are now on the hunt for potential victims who may have fallen prey to Key's deceptive tactics or have paid him for contracted services. Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to come forward by calling 239-321-7700.

Ongoing Investigation

The Fort Myers Police Department is actively pursuing this case and seeking additional leads. Unfortunately, no further details are available at this time.