Contractor Stole Over $120K From The Homeowners Who Hired Him

TOWN OF WARWICK, NY — A contractor who took advantage of homeowners who trusted him to renovate their homes faced justice in an Orange County courtroom.

Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler announced that 35-year-old Kevin Hackett, of Wurtsboro, was convicted by a jury on Thursday, of all charges against him, including third-degree grand larceny and first-degree scheme to defraud.

He faces up to four and two-thirds years to 14 years in prison when he is scheduled to be sentenced on January 5. Hackett was remanded to the Orange County Jail without bail after the jury's verdict.

According to court documents, Hackett owned Operation Green Construction and agreed to perform work at three properties in the Town of Warwick.

In May of 2023, Hackett entered into a contract to perform work at a home and received over $38,000 to start the work. He began demolition work on the property before demanding an additional $20,000. After receiving the additional payment, Hackett again demanded more money before stopping work, refusing to return to the home or reimburse the victims.

In July of 2023, Hackett entered into a contract to perform work at a second home owned by the victims, who paid Hackett over $39,000 before he demanded more money. After receiving an additional $24,000, Hackett did no further work and did not reimburse the victims.

In September of 2023, Hackett entered into a contract with a different victim to perform work at a third home in the Town of Warwick. After receiving $27,900, he performed no work and stopped communicating with the victim.

In total, Hackett stole in excess of $120,000 from the separate victims during the schemes.

DA Hoovler thanked the New York State Police whose investigation led to the arrest of Hackett. He also thanked the Orange County Joint White Collar Crimes Task Force who assisted in the investigation and prosecution of Hackett.

"Unscrupulous contractors are every homeowner's worst nightmare," Hoovler said. "Being defrauded of the funds to build or renovate your home has far-reaching and often life-changing consequences for victims. These cases are incredibly difficult to investigate and prove. I applaud the work of the police and prosecutors assigned to this case who ensured that this defendant would not escape responsibility for his crimes. It is this very coordination and cooperation that drives an otherwise elusive successful outcome in cases like this one."