Suffolk police: Contractor bilked customers out of more than $30,000

Police say Olger Conce Guambana was hired by a 75-year-old woman in August to do work at her home but the work was never done.

Cecilia Dowd

Feb 26, 2024, 10:41 AM

Updated 283 days ago

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A contractor hired across Suffolk County is facing grand larceny charges, accused of stealing more than $30,000 from clients.
According to a release from Suffolk police, a 75-year-old woman reported to police on Aug. 29, 2023 that she had hired Olger Conce Guambana to do work at her home “and it was not completed as agreed.”
“Conce Guambana then used a bad check to issue a partial refund and stopped all further communication with the woman,” it says.
According to court documents, the defendant stole from clients in Bay Shore, Port Jefferson, Centereach and Lake Grove.
Additionally, the defendant is accused of theft at Sider Lumber in Nesconset. Joseph Sider told News 12 that the defendant paid for items worth about $5,000 with two checks but then stopped payment on the checks.
Police believe there may be more victims out there. Anyone who thinks they may have been a victim is asked to call the Sixth Squad at 631-854-8652.
Police offered these tips for those looking to hire a contractor: Get multiple estimates. Get everything in writing. Hire local, licensed contractors as it will be easier to get references. Check with the Better Business Bureau. Be suspicious if asked to pay everything up front. Finally, just take your time.
If you think you were a victim you are asked to call 631-854-8652.