UPDATE: Missing Contractor Charged with Theft and Home Improvement Fraud Found in State Prison

A warrant issued for Michael T. Perno, owner of Perno Construction, may not be necessary. Perno, who is accused of defrauding a Lower Milford man of $4,528.58 for contracted home improvements, has been located in state prison in Greene County, outside of Pittsburgh. On Oct. 2, 2010, Perno contracted with Frank Stavish to install hardwood floors in his Lower Milford home. In addition to the hardwood floors, Perno was to cut down a large stump in the front yard and cut up firewood in the back yard. Perno was scheduled to begin work on Oct. 12.

According to the criminal complaint, on Oct. 12, Perno allegedly called Stavish to explain he wouldn’t be able to begin work that day because of “issues with his rental property.” Perno allegedly told Stavish he would call in two days to reschedule. Stavish never heard from Perno. Despite several documented e-mails, certified letters and FedEx letters, Perno had not made contact.

On Jan. 10, 2011, Stavish went to police to fill out a criminal complaint. An arrest warrant was issued for Perno, but law enforcement officials have been unable to find him. On March 1, constable Jason Searock informed District Judge David Harding of Coopersburg that he believes Perno has been located in state prison in Greene County.

Perno was arraigned this afternoon by video feed in district court. His identity was confirmed at that time.