The contractor is sentenced to eight years in prison for roof fraud in Western Colorado

A roofer tried in Grand Junction on a number of thefts was sentenced to eight years in prison and given a restitution to the 30 victims he cheated on.

George Harris was convicted Thursday after being released from the Attorney General’s office after a four-week trial in June. His sentence includes 10 years probation for economic crimes. He was found guilty of all seven thefts in a trial held in the 21st Judicial District with the assistance of District Attorney Dan Rubinstein. The criminal justice department followed up the case.

Harris, of East West Roofing LLC. Company, found guilty of offering its customers an initial cost estimate for roof repairs and down payments without ever having completed the contracted roofing project. He retained and used the requested funds for personal expenses, including multiple homes, more frequent meals, and anti-aging procedures, according to the press release. The Bill of Rights for Residential Roofers obliges roofers to hold customer funds in a trust either until materials are ordered or until a large part of the contracted roof has been completed.

The thefts, which occurred between June 2014 and May 2015, affected Durango, Grand Junction, Montrose, and Summit Counties and totaled over $ 250,000.

Harris’ associate, Amber Burch, pleaded guilty to theft of Class 3 crimes and was a cooperating witness in the trial. She will also pay a refund.

“When bad actors – especially those who provide important services like roof repairs – victimize and deceive consumers, they hurt the entire community,” said Attorney General Phil Weiser in the press release. “Dishonest and misleading companies that break the law and steal from Coloradans will not be tolerated. Those who engage in these illegal business practices must be held accountable.”