Evansville, IN, September 13, 2025
News Summary
Three contractors in Evansville face serious charges, including theft and fraud, following allegations of altered checks, unfinished repairs, and operating without proper licenses. The arrests highlight growing concerns about deceptive practices in the home repair industry, prompting calls for increased consumer protection. As investigations continue, homeowners are urged to exercise caution and report any suspicious activities involving contractors.
Evansville Contractors Face Multiple Charges for Theft and Fraud Including Altered Checks and Unfinished Home Repairs
Evansville, IN – Three local contractors have been charged with serious offenses including theft and fraud, highlighting a growing concern over dishonest practices in home repairs. The charges against the contractors involve significant allegations including altered checks, unfinished repair work, and unauthorized operations.
Matthew Martin Charged with Theft and Fraud
Matthew Martin, the owner of Matthew Martin Construction, faces multiple charges after allegedly stealing nearly $10,000 from an elderly couple. The couple, who initially hired Martin for small jobs costing under $300, reported that Martin asked them to leave the payee line blank on a check. He instructed them to fill in the numerical amount while leaving the written dollar amount incomplete. This move allegedly enabled him to alter the check for his personal gain.
Authorities discovered two additional blank checks belonging to the couple found in Martin’s wallet, raising further concerns about his intentions. In a startling admission, Martin acknowledged using some of the stolen funds to take his child to Disney World. Following his arraignment, a $2,500 bond was set, and he has been ordered to have no contact with the victims.
Eric Morgan’s Fraudulent Practices
In a separate case, Eric Morgan, who operates as Eric Morgan DBA Rugged Construction, has faced charges for multiple counts of theft and fraud after being hired in October 2023 for a room addition. The homeowner, needing the modifications to care for a sick family member, paid Morgan a sizable $25,000 down payment. Over the course of the project, the homeowner ended up paying a total of $152,619.72.
However, the construction work was delayed significantly. When it began in February 2024, Morgan allegedly failed to adhere to contract terms, did not order the paid-for kitchen cabinets, and incurred a mechanic’s lien of nearly $9,000 for unpaid HVAC services. Additionally, Morgan operated without a contractor’s license, insurance, or necessary building permits. There are ongoing investigations into Morgan’s past, revealing a federal conviction for Securities Fraud in 2017, which resulted in approximately $650,000 in losses.
Keys Contracting Owners Charged with Fraud
Jacob Andrew Key and Brooklyn Deshae Key, owners of Keys Contracting, are facing serious allegations of fraud after reportedly defrauding homeowners of over $178,000 intended for storm damage repairs following a tornado. The Keys are accused of failing to complete contracted work, leaving homes vulnerable to further damage and poor workmanship due to incomplete repairs. They also allegedly neglected to obtain the necessary permits for the work conducted.
Homeowners affected by Keys Contracting’s practices have initiated civil suits against the couple for damages, which indicates a significant level of dissatisfaction and mistrust in their services. The Keys have pleaded not guilty and have been instructed not to contact the homeowners involved after their initial court appearances.
Ongoing Investigations and Community Impact
These incidents are part of a troubling trend in Evansville, as authorities investigate several contractors for fraudulent practices. Residents are encouraged to conduct due diligence before hiring contractors to avoid falling victim to similar schemes. With multiple agencies believed to be involved in the investigation of these contractors, the community is hopeful for accountability and better protections for consumers in the future.
Conclusion
As investigations continue, the cases against Martin, Morgan, and the Keys reflect the pressing need for transparency and integrity within the contracting industry in Evansville. Homeowners are urged to report suspicious activities as authorities seek to strengthen regulations to protect consumers from fraudulent practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges have been filed against Matthew Martin?
Matthew Martin has been charged with fraud and theft for allegedly altering checks to steal nearly $10,000 from an elderly couple.
What issues were reported with Eric Morgan’s construction work?
Eric Morgan did not follow contract terms, delayed work, and operated without necessary permits and licenses. Homeowners reportedly paid substantially for incomplete work.
What are the allegations against the Keys?
Jacob and Brooklyn Key are accused of taking over $178,000 from homeowners for storm damage repairs but failing to complete the work, leaving homes unfinished and vulnerable to further damage.
| Contractor Name | Charges | Allegations | Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matthew Martin | Fraud, Theft | Altered client check, theft | $10,000 from elderly couple |
| Eric Morgan | Theft, Fraud | Delayed work, unlicensed operations | $152,619.72 paid by homeowner |
| Jacob and Brooklyn Key | Fraud | Unfinished work, poor workmanship | $178,000 taken from homeowners |
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Additional Resources
- 14 News: Evansville Contractor Arrested
- Courier & Press: Construction Company Owners Face Fraud Charges
- WEVV: Contractor Accused of Fraud and Theft
- TriState Homepage: Contractor Arrested for Home Improvement Fraud
- Courier & Press: Contractor Stole $150K from Homeowner
- Wikipedia: Fraud
- Google Search: Contractor Fraud
- Google Scholar: Contractor Fraud
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fraud
- Google News: Contractor Arrest
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