Greater Sudbury Police arrested and charged EcoLife Home Improvements owner David Murray on May 30.
Between September 2018 and May 2019 the Greater Sudbury Police Service received a number of complaints in relation to EcoLife Home Improvements. Multiple community members alleged that after providing monetary deposits for home renovation projects, the contracted work was never completed.
The numerous allegations were directed to the Greater Sudbury Police Service Criminal Investigations Division Fraud Unit and an investigation was initiated coinciding with an investigation by the Consumer Protection Bureau.
On March 7, numerous Sudburians gathered at the corner of Brady and Paris Streets, protesting Murray's business practices and calling on the Greater Sudbury Police Service to do something about it.
While the investigation was in full swing, Murray sounded off in an interview with Sudbury.com, blaming the cancellation of the GreenOn program for his unfinished jobs.
On April 12, the City of Greater Sudbury revoked Murray's business licence, and the embattled contractor indicated that he would be appealing the decision in front of a hearing committee on June 5.
Murray's hearing was delayed after he asked more time, pushing his hearing until August.
On Thursday, May 30, 46-year old, David Murray, owner of EcoLife Home Improvements Incorporated was arrested and charged with 20 counts of fraud over $5,000 and three counts of fraud under $5,000.
He was released on a promise to appear with a first appearance court date of July 3.
"As a homeowner considering renovation projects such as new windows, siding, shingles, decks etc. ensure that you protect yourself and your property by doing your research prior to signing a contract or providing a down payment," said GSPS in a news release.
"You can do so by entering a business name or an individual’s name into the search engine of your computer. You may also want to check the company's Facebook page (or other social media profiles such as Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, etc.)."
