Man accused of defrauding Florida couple out of $30K in solar panel scheme arrested

Man accused of defrauding couple out of $30K arrested

A man accused of defrauding an Ormond Beach couple out of more than $30,000 during the installation of solar panels at their home has been arrested, authorities said.

ORMOND BEACH, Fla. - A man accused of defrauding an Ormond Beach couple out of more than $30,000 during the installation of solar panels at their home has been arrested, authorities said.

Steven Scott, 36, a representative for Powur PBC, a California-based energy company, allegedly convinced the couple to pay $37,000 in cash for a solar system, promising a substantial discount, according to an arrest report. The total project was initially quoted at just over $70,000.

Two weeks after making the cash payment, the couple received a bill from Powur that did not reflect the payment. Efforts to locate Scott were unsuccessful, leaving the couple with an outstanding balance that pushed the cost to over $100,000.

"We were very angry. What company doesn't stand behind their employee?" said the alleged victim, who wished to remain anonymous.

MORE HEADLINES:

Fraud prevention expert Mason Wilder called the discount offer a "huge red flag" and advised against paying large amounts in cash, as it complicates recovery efforts if something goes wrong.

Scott has been arrested and charged with grand theft and fraud. He is being held at the Volusia County Jail on a $40,000 bond.

The couple hopes sharing their story will prevent others from falling victim to similar schemes. Powur's legal team has acknowledged inquiries but has not yet responded to questions about the case.

STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 35 ORLANDO: