Schneider
AUGUSTA, Maine (Legal Newsline) - Maine Attorney General William Schneider filed lawsuits on Monday against two home repair contractors for allegedly taking money from consumers and failing to perform tasks as promised.
The lawsuits were filed against Daniel B. Tucci, also known as "Dan the Handyman," and Joel Poirier, the owner of a home construction and repair business.
Tucci allegedly collected payments in advance but failed to perform the promised home repair services. After homeowners complained about the lack of progress, Tucci allegedly demanded more money. The work actually performed by Tucci and his crew was allegedly of low quality.
Poirier allegedly took major down payments in advance for home improvement projects that were not started on time and were never finished.
"We allege that these contractors intentionally misrepresented their ability and willingness to complete the home improvement projects they were paid in advance to do," Schneider said. "This kind of intimidation of our seniors, who especially need help maintaining their homes, is intolerable."
The lawsuit against Tucci was filed on Thursday in Cumberland County Superior Court. Tucci allegedly targeted elderly victims with threats and bullying when he was confronted about his lack of progress.
The lawsuit against Poirier was filed on February 18 in York County Superior Court after the U.S. Bankruptcy Court dismissed Poirier's petition for Chapter 13.
Schneider's lawsuits seek to prohibit Poirier and Tucci from acting as general contractors in Maine, taking any money in advance from consumers and providing goods or services. The lawsuit also seeks penalties, restitution for affected consumers and costs.