CLOVER, S.C. — A South Carolina man was arrested following a four-month state and federal investigation into contracts related to residential home construction, deputies said.
The York County Sheriff's Office said Christian Josepth Novellino was taken into custody on Monday morning. Novellino, 49, is charged with seven counts of breach of trust.
Deputies said numerous victims raised concerns to the York County Sheriff's Office regarding contracts made with Novellino and his company, Construction Up Homebuilders. The allegations suggest little to no progress was made toward fulfilling the contracts.
When victims requested refunds, they were informed the funds were unavailable or inadequate compensation was offered, deputies said.
"We are just now scratching the surface of the number of people affected by this investigation and this arrest,” York County Sheriff Kevin Tolson said. “We strongly feel there may be more people out there who were defrauded by Mr. Novellino and are committed to ensuring justice for all affected in this case.”
Anyone who may be a victim of construction fraud involving Mr. Novellino or Constructing Up Homebuilders, is encouraged to call Detective Kimbrell with the York County Sheriff's Office at 803-628-3059.
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