Houston Man Accused of $500K Generator Scam Across Texas

Generator Scam Allegations

• 👨‍⚖️ A Houston man, James Eric Barnes, is accused of orchestrating a scam involving approximately $500,000 worth of generators.
• 💳 Investigators allege Barnes used stolen credit cards to purchase generators from over 30 companies across Texas.
• 💻 The stolen generators were then allegedly resold at deep discounts on platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist.

Impact on Victims

• ⚠️ Buyers who purchased the generators later discovered they were stolen, rendering the equipment unusable or unserviceable.
• 🏠 These generators were often purchased by individuals seeking to keep their homes safe during severe weather events like cold storms or hurricanes.
• 💸 The scam also victimized the companies that were duped out of their money and merchandise.

Legal Charges and Investigation

• criminal activity engaging in organized criminal activity.
• 📞 Investigators are urging anyone who may have been a victim of this scam to contact the Harris County Precinct 1 Constable's office.