VIRGINIA BEACH — A man was sentenced to five years in prison for defrauding a World War II veteran, according to the Commonwealth’s Attorney Office.
Francisco Gomez, 61, formerly of the 100 block of Caratoke Highway in Moyock, N.C., was sentenced after pleading guilty to felony construction fraud in May.
Gomez’s five-year sentence is more than the standard sentencing recommendation of no more than three years. Prosecutors say Gomez has a history of committing crimes against the elderly
In June 2016, the 92-year-old fraud victim entered a contract with Gomez for an $11,000 roof repair, according to prosecutors.
The victim paid Gomez an advance of $7,000, and when no construction work was completed after several months, the victim contacted police.
Gomez never returned any of the $7,000 nor did he do any construction on the victim’s roof, according to the Commonwealth’s Attorney Office.
In order to avoid construction fraud, the Commonwealth’s Attorney Office advises that people pay construction workers in increments as work is completed. They also urge people to use licensed and insured contract companies.
