CLAYPOOL — A man has been arrested after he cashed a check for $9,608 but failed to repair the home as promised.

Gilberto Meza, 27, 1891 West CR 700S, Claypool, is being charged with home improvement fraud and theft, both level 6 felonies.

Gilberto Meza

According to the affidavit of probable cause, in July 2016, a homeowner entered into a contract with Hoosier State Roofing, owned and operated by Meza. The contract was for home repairs and totaled $12,811.

The homeowner provided Meza with a 75 percent downpayment of $9,608 so he could purchase supplies. The check was made out on Sept. 17, 2016 and was cashed by Meza the same day. The homeowner provided officers with a copy of the contract and the check written to Meza.

After receiving the money, Meza came to the job site, cleaned up some debris and put plastic over the damaged part of the room. After that one appearance, Meza never came back to complete the contracted work or deliver the supplies.

The officer was able to make contact with Meza, who advised that he didn’t have any of the money and that it was all gone.

Meza was booked into the Kosciusko County Jail on March 2 with a $5,350 surety and cash bond.