New Orleans police are searching for a man accused of taking payment from an elderly homeowner after posing as a contractor, then failing to perform the work.
The New Orleans Police Department said Raychel Jefferson is wanted for theft by fraud after an incident on June 3 in the 1000 block of Horace Street.
According to investigators, Jefferson allegedly defrauded the elderly victim by impersonating a contractor, receiving payment, and not completing the paid-for work.
A warrant has been issued for his arrest. Police said Jefferson is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
The Contractor Claim Led To A Fraud Warrant
The case was also reported by Hoodline, which cited New Orleans police and WDSU coverage of the wanted notice.
Police said the victim was allegedly convinced to pay for home repair work that was never performed. Public details released so far do not include the amount of money allegedly taken, the type of repair promised, or whether any written contract was involved.
NOPD described Jefferson as a Black male, about 5 feet 9 inches tall and 155 pounds. Anyone with information is asked to contact Fourth District detectives.
Fake Contractor Cases Often Start With Upfront Payment
The Federal Trade Commission warns that home improvement scammers may knock on doors, claim they are already working nearby, offer a low price, ask for cash upfront, and disappear after taking payment.
For older homeowners, that pitch can be especially risky when the repair sounds urgent or the person at the door seems friendly, confident, or familiar with the neighborhood.
The FTC advises homeowners to compare contractors, check references, get written estimates, and avoid paying the full amount before the work is complete.
Police Are Asking For Tips
NOPD Fourth District detectives are asking anyone with information about Jefferson’s location or the alleged fraud to call 504-658-6040.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans at 504-822-1111 or toll-free at 1-877-903-STOP.
Anyone who believes they were approached by a fake contractor should keep receipts, written estimates, text messages, business cards, doorbell footage, security video, and payment records before contacting police.
The safest move before paying for home repair work is to verify the contractor independently, get the agreement in writing, and avoid handing over full payment before the job is finished.