Mesa police arrest man suspected of stealing more than $100K in fraudulent contractor scheme

PHOENIX — Mesa Police on Monday arrested a man who is accused of fraudulent schemes, theft, forgery and unlicensed contracting work, authorities said.

Edward Carr, 45, allegedly defrauded victims out of more than $100,000, according to the Mesa Police Department.

Carr was also booked for two probation violations, including one for a case in which he was ordered to register as a sex offender.

Investigators are urging anyone who thinks they could have been one of his victims to come forward by calling Mesa Police at 480-644-2211. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (948-9377) or 480-TESTIGO (837-8446) for Spanish speakers.

Details about Mesa man accused of fraud, unlicensed contracting

Police said Carr operated under fictitious names, reaching out to homeowners seeking help with projects on social media and recruiting subcontractors at local stores and warehouses.

After work began, he allegedly told victims that more repairs were required and demanded additional payments.

However, he would then stop paying subcontractors, cut off communication and continue requesting money from victims, police said.

This resulted in victims paying tens of thousands of dollars more than they had originally agreed to and left many with significant home damage, unfinished projects or substandard work, police said.

Beyond the victims already identified, police suspect there may be more homeowners in Mesa and the Valley who were affected.

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