El Portal Police Seek Suspect in Contractor Scam Involving $12,000 Deposit

Contractor Scam Alert in El Portal

• 🚨 El Portal police are actively searching for a man identified as Mike Martinez, accused of posing as a contractor.
• 🏠 The suspect allegedly took a $12,000 deposit, which was half the total cost, from a homeowner for a kitchen remodel.
• ⏳ The homeowner reported that nine months passed with no work completed and the contractor became unresponsive.

Investigation and Suspect Information

• 🕵️ Ian McKenzie, the victim, believed he had hired a licensed contractor after checking his credentials.
• ⚠️ However, police state that Martinez does not hold a valid license in Florida, despite appearing to have one previously.
• 🚓 Police have probable cause for an arrest and believe Martinez may have scammed numerous other individuals.

Public Appeal and Contact Information

• 🗺️ Authorities believe the suspect may be located in the Broward County area.
• 📞 El Portal Police urge Mike Martinez to turn himself in.
• 📣 The public is asked to call Crimestoppers at 305-471-TIPS if they have any information on his whereabouts.
• ⚖️ Victims who believe they have been victimized by this individual are encouraged to contact El Portal Police.