Florida Man Arrested for Alleged Fraud Targeting Elderly Hurricane Victims

Fraud Scheme Exploits Hurricane Disaster Victims in Florida

Authorities in Florida have taken into custody a man suspected of orchestrating a fraudulent operation targeting elderly residents in the wake of Hurricane Milton. This scam left many seniors financially devastated and without the promised home repairs, worsening their vulnerability during an already difficult time. Investigations indicate that a large portion of the misappropriated funds was spent on gambling.

No Repairs Completed by the Accused

The suspect, known by the initials B.M., operated under the business name RedFin Construction. He faces 13 felony charges connected to his scheme, which involved collecting substantial upfront payments from homeowners for storm damage repairs that were never carried out. His main victims were residents of Seabreeze Mobile Home Park, many of whom were elderly and severely affected by the hurricane.

The inquiry began in July 2025 after multiple similar complaints were filed. Detective Michael Carpenter of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office identified 14 victims aged between 62 and 95. Court documents revealed that these homeowners paid about $222,000 in advance for aluminum repair work that remained unfinished.

Although some materials were purchased, they were not used to complete any repair projects for the victims.

Statement from Bradenton Police Department

Further findings showed B.M. was not a licensed contractor in Florida and allegedly operated using another company’s credentials. Financial records demonstrated he pressured victims to make large upfront deposits while they were still dealing with displacement and damage caused by the hurricane.

Gambling Addiction Drives Criminal Activity

Prosecutors reported that B.M. diverted the stolen funds into personal and business accounts, spending approximately $53,000 gambling at casinos and covering his everyday expenses. He now faces serious accusations, including defrauding over $50,000, misusing construction funds exceeding $100,000, and committing aggravated white-collar crimes against elderly individuals, all of which constitute first-degree felonies.

This case highlights ongoing issues related to gambling and financial crime. Recently, a similar situation emerged in Virginia where a police officer admitted to defrauding people of more than $800,000 to support a gambling addiction. Such incidents reveal how gambling-related harm often extends beyond the individual directly involved, impacting their community and victims.

Experts continue to warn that gambling-related problems are increasing across the United States. Research from the University of Maryland has linked the rise in betting activities to a surge in gambling disorders and financial difficulties such as bankruptcy. These cases exemplify how compulsive gambling can lead individuals to criminal behavior, disregarding the severe consequences for those they deceive, particularly vulnerable populations.