Harford County Sheriff’s Office is seeking victims of home improvement theft

HARFORD COUNTY, Md. – The Harford County Sheriff’s Office is looking for victims of a theft by a home improvement contractor.

Detectives have charged David Desell, 33, with preying on seniors in Harford County.

Harford County Sheriff’s Office

The investigation was sparked by a phone call the sheriff’s office received on Halloween.

Officials say the adult child of one of the victims called them and said their mother was abused by Desell in September.

Desell reportedly knocked on her door and offered his services to make repairs to her home, which turned out to be unnecessary or fabricated deficiencies.

A second victim, who lives on the same street, reported that they had also been approached by Desell.

He allegedly told the victim that there was a crack in the foundation, which was causing a major structural problem, and if it was not repaired in time, her house could collapse.

Desell allegedly provided forged documents and fabricated paperwork, invoices, licenses and photos to scare victims into agreeing to expensive home repairs, which would never be completed or completed with false documents.

For example, the first victim had to pay $3,124 for a Coachman brand door, while a $418 replica was installed instead.

Both victims live in the Bel Air area.

Desell was arrested at his home on November 5 and later released on $5,000 bail.

If you feel you or a loved one has been taken advantage of, please contact detectives at 410-836-5428.