By Bonnie Culverhouse
The Arkansas man who was arrested recently for scamming the elderly and infirmed by offering to fix their driveways, has had more charges added as people come forward.
Today, Wednesday, July 21, several complainants came forward, according to Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker.
“Added to the original charges are theft by fraud by residents of Lone Oak Drive and Crete Drive in Sibley and one of Syrup Mill Road,” Parker said.
Earlier this month, Parker said his chief deputy, Hank Haynes took Michael Morris Jeffery, 45, off the asphalt.
“Haynes was traveling southbound on La. Hwy. 371 and saw asphalt equipment in the driveway of the residence located in the 22,000 block,” Parker said. “He stopped at the residence because he knew the owner – Mike’s Paving – was wanted on several outstanding warrants for low quality workmanship and overcharging elderly customers.”
Parker said there have been approximately seven complaints from parish residents regarding the quality of work and the “outrageous price they were forced into paying. I’m sure there are more victims, and it is not too late to file charges.”
The most recent charges bring the number to at least 10.
The sheriff also said Jeffery claimed to be with the Webster Parish Police Jury at one resident’s home.
Jeffery’s original charges include false impersonation, three counts of theft of assets of the aged, failure to obtain permit and cheating and swindling.
The charges were added while Jeffery is still incarcerated at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center. His bonds now total more than $100,000.
