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Man charged with paving scam in Lyons

Sheriff's Office recommends that people do some research before hiring contractors
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Photo by Ümit Yıldırım on Unsplash

This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.

On May 14, 2020, Boulder County deputies were dispatched to the 100 block of Main Street in Lyons, Boulder County, in reference to a “paving scam.” Through the investigation it was learned that a local business was contacted by an out of state asphalt company about repairing some pot holes in their parking lot with the “leftover” asphalt they had. A small repair job was initially contracted but the contractors proceeded to pave a much larger area and then subsequently demanded a large payment for the work. This is consistent with paving scams that frequently occur during the warmer months.

While deputies were investigating the incident, 26-year-old Christopher D. Buda, an employee of the contracting company returned to the victim’s business to collect payment for the job. He was subsequently arrested for his role in the incident. Deputies also learned that this company, identified as “Roadside Paving” had recently operated in Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia. It was also learned that there is an ongoing investigation on members of this crew out of Virginia for a similar incident.

Buda was arrested for Felony Theft $5,000 < $20,000. He was issued a felony summons and given a return court date.

Before hiring a contractor to perform this type of work, we recommend:

  • Get written estimates and references when possible;
  • Do not pay cash, obtain a signed contract;
  • Use local contractors whenever possible and always ask for identification;
  • Check out potential contractors on the Better Business Bureau website before agreeing to work.

This investigation is ongoing. Anybody with more information on this case contact Boulder County Detective Connor Pontiakos at 303-441-3379. The associated case number is 20-2150.