Attorney General's News Release

July 9, 1999

Former St. Peters contractor sentenced to 20 days in jail, ordered to turn over $12,000 for violating probation

St. Louis, Mo. — A former St. Peters home contractor was sentenced to 20 days in the St. Louis County jail and ordered to turn over $12,000 in cash bonds to be used for restitution on Thursday for violating the terms of his probation.

Harry E. Jacobs pleaded guilty to criminal unlawful merchandising counts in 1997 in both St. Louis city and county. Attorney General Jay Nixon charged Jacobs with taking money from several senior citizens and working class residents of north St. Louis and misrepresenting to them that he would complete home repair work when he did not intend to perform the jobs. His failure to complete work often exposed the interiors of the homes to the elements, damaging customers homes and furniture. Jacobs was placed on probation in both the city and county and ordered to perform 300 hours of community service, spend six weekends in the city jail and pay a total of $12,050 in restitution.

Jacobs admitted to violating the terms of his probation in St. Louis City by failing to perform community service and failing to pay restitution. He admitted to violating the terms of his probation in St. Louis County by failing to pay restitution and being convicted of retail theft while on probation.

Jacobs was sentenced to 20 days in jail in both the city and county and will serve both sentences concurrently in the St. Louis County jail. Jacobs will remain on probation until November of 2002.

"I hope this decision against Jacobs sends a clear message to anyone who would take advantage of Missouri homeowners," Nixon said. "My office will not only work hard to convict and punish scam artists, but ensure they fulfill the term of their punishments."

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818