HARRISBURG–Attorney General Josh Shapiro today announced that his office filed charges against contractor Michael Bloom of Williamsport, PA. Bloom entered into contracts with six Pennsylvania residents to install elevators in their homes. He took deposits from the six homeowners, but never followed through with the installations.
“The law is clear on this,” said AG Shapiro. “Contractors can’t enter into a contract, accept money from a homeowner, and then fail to deliver — and that’s just what Bloom did. He pocketed $86,110 from his clients and did none of the work he promised. That’s theft, and my office won’t stand for it, we’re taking action to get Pennsylvanians their money back.”
Five of the homeowners left in the lurch by Bloom were over 60 years old. In all six cases, Bloom took deposits and provided little or no services in return. When residents requested refunds, Bloom refused to return the deposits.
Bloom has been charged with 37 felonies total, including Home Improvement Fraud, Deceptive Business Practices, Theft by Deception, and Theft by Unlawful Taking.
Any consumers who believe they or their family members may have been a victim of Michael Bloom should file a complaint online with the Bureau of Consumer Protection, email scams@attorneygeneral.gov, or call 800-441-2555.
This case will be prosecuted by Senior Deputy Attorney General Bernard A. Anderson. All charges are accusations. The defendants are innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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