Houston Man Accused of $500K Generator Scam Using Stolen Credit Cards

Generator Scam Operation

• 🚨 James Eric Barnes, 46, is accused of leading an organized crime ring that targeted homeowners by selling generators purchased with stolen credit card numbers.
• 🎯 The scam involved both permanently installed standby generators and portable generators, with hundreds allegedly sold in the Houston area.
• 📦 Investigators discovered a Northwest Houston storage unit used to house the stolen merchandise.

Scam Modus Operandi

• 💳 Suspects allegedly used stolen credit card numbers to purchase generators online, with original prices ranging from $7,000 to $10,000.
• 🚗 Craigslist drivers were reportedly used to pick up the generators, which were then staged and advertised on Facebook Marketplace.
• 💸 Barnes allegedly sold the generators at significantly discounted prices, sometimes as low as $5,000 cash, to unsuspecting buyers.

Consequences for Buyers

• 🚫 Generators sold through the scam will not work once reported to the Generac company system.
• 🔍 Investigators are actively locating buyers by reviewing messages on Facebook Marketplace.
• ⚠️ Buyers are urged to contact Precinct 1 Constable Alan Rosen, as their generators will be confiscated.
• 🙏 Buyers are not expected to face legal trouble and may be able to recover some funds through insurance or the DA's victim assistance fund.