15 unlicensed contractors busted in sting operation

SEASIDE, CALIF. (KION-TV)- The Contractors State License Board, Monterey County District Attorney's Office and California Department of Insurance caught 15 unlicensed contractors during a sting operation last month in Seaside.

According to officials, In late July, those 15 people were given Notices to Appear in criminal court for allegedly contracting without a proper license. One of the 15 had been previously caught during a June 2022 sting.

All the bids that were received exceeded California's $500 threshold that requires a contractor’s license. The largest bid was $10,500 for a fence project. That same person also requested an excessive down payment of $3,500 for the project.

In total, there were three people who requested excessive down payments. Under California law, contractors can request no more than 10 percent of the project cost or $1,000, whichever is less. Violating this is a misdemeanor which is punishable by either fines of up to $5,000, a one-year county jail sentence, or both if given.

On top of these charges, one person could face a felony charge for advertising under a deceased relative's license. Another was issued a Stop Order for not providing workers’ compensation insurance to employees. This could lead to misdemeanor charges and penalties that include up to 60 days in jail and/or $10,000 in fines.

Other charges will come if needed.