12 Unlicensed Contractors Caught in Riverside County Sting

Undercover operation exposes contractors ignoring state laws, facing fines and jail time.

A two-day sting operation in Riverside County led to the arrest of 12 unlicensed contractors who were caught illegally bidding on construction projects far beyond what California law allows. These individuals now face significant penalties, including hefty fines and potential jail time.

The operation, conducted in Menifee on September 24-25, was spearheaded by the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, with help from local police and the California Contractors State License Board. The unlicensed contractors were lured into providing bids for projects such as landscaping, painting, and masonry work.

California law strictly prohibits unlicensed contractors from bidding or working on any project exceeding $500, including materials and labor. All 12 contractors submitted bids well over this limit, with estimates ranging from $2,300 to $32,000—blatant violations of state law.

Those caught in the sting have been cited for misdemeanor charges related to illegal contracting. If convicted, they could face fines as high as $15,000 and up to six months in jail. Repeat offenders risk even harsher penalties, including mandatory jail time and additional fines.

Adding to their violations, six of the contractors requested down payments exceeding the legal limit, which caps at $1,000 or 10% of the total project cost. For these offenses, the contractors may face separate charges that could result in more fines and jail time.

The Riverside County District Attorney’s Office emphasized that these operations are part of a broader effort to combat illegal contracting and protect consumers from fraudulent practices. The cases will be prosecuted by the D.A.’s Consumer Fraud Unit.

Residents are encouraged to report suspected unlicensed contracting activity to the California Contractors State License Board either online or by calling 1-800-321-2752. Authorities stress that these stings are crucial in “holding violators accountable” and maintaining fair business practices in the state’s construction industry.