From the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office, Lake Charles, LA – On March 19, Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives received a complaint on Ronald J. Dugas, Jr., 44, 694 Jaywood Drive, Lake Charles, in reference to contractor fraud.

 

During the investigation, the victim advised detectives she hired Dugas to perform construction work at her residence. The victim stated in December 2020 she paid Dugas half the money upfront to cover the materials and begin work. Dugas cashed the check from the victim the same day he received it but did not return to the home to start repairs for over two months after giving the victim multiple excuses as to why there was a delay in construction. The victim advised detectives in February Dugas arrived at her home for only a few hours to work and she has not been able to contact him since that time.

The same day detectives received the report they contacted Dugas at which time he stated he planned on returning to do the job the following day. Several days later he returned to the residence and worked for approximately two hours and failed to return to complete any other work. It was also learned Dugas did not deliver all the victim’s materials, which she previously paid for.

 

After further investigation, on March 30 detectives obtained a warrant signed by Judge Derek Kee for Dugas’ arrest. On April 6, Dugas was located and arrested, and booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center, and charged with residential contractor fraud over $1,500; and exploitation of the infirmed (due to the victim’s age). He was released the following day on a $15,000 bond.

CPSO Detective Chris Duhon is the lead investigator on this case.