SARASOTA COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) — A man who posed as a contractor and stole thousands from Hurricane Ian victims was sentenced to five years in prison.

Court documents reveal that Justin Hoover of J & J Screens LLC took deposits between $1,500 and $15,000 from multiple residents of Sarasota County, particularly within the Venice Isles Estates neighborhood.

He had them sign contracts to repair or build new carports, screen rooms, or sheds after Hurricane Ian damaged them, but he never completed the work.

“Living in Florida, the threat of hurricane damage is always present for our community, and for these victims, it was a harsh reality. Not only did they endure the devastation of Hurricane Ian, but they also fell prey to Justin Hoover, who operated without a contractor’s license and never completed the promised projects. Hoover deceived veterans, seniors, and those on fixed incomes, taking their savings and now faces imprisonment for his deeds,” stated Economic Crime Prosecutor Amanda Morris.

The State Attorney’s Office announced on Thursday that Hoover has been sentenced for 31 counts of grand theft involving victims aged 65 and older, along with six counts of grand theft and a misdemeanor for unlicensed contracting.

He also received a sentence of 5 years of probation and was ordered to pay $212,417.80 in restitution to the victims.

The State Attorney’s Office said citizens should always confirm that a contractor they are working with is licensed in the State of Florida. They can check this by visiting the Department of Business and Professional Regulation website.

Attorneys also said citizens should be cautious when a contractor asks for more than a 10% deposit.