Delaware State Police

Superintendent Colonel William D. Crotty

State Police Arrest Dover Man for Home Improvement Fraud

Date Posted: Thursday, January 8th, 2026

Delaware State Police have arrested 59-year-old Stephen Kurtz. of Dover, Delaware, for home improvement fraud and felony theft.

Beginning in November 2025, troopers began investigating Stephen Kurtz for home improvement fraud. During the investigation, troopers learned that Kurtz had signed a contract with a 64-year-old Rehoboth Beach man in February 2025, to do construction work and received over $38,000 in payments. Kurtz never completed the work and the victim’s money was not reimbursed. A warrant was obtained for his arrest.

On January 7, 2026, Kurtz was arrested and charged with the crimes listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on a $10,000 unsecured bond.

Home Improvement Fraud by False Pretense – $1,500 or Greater and the Victim is 62 Years of Age or Older (Felony)
Theft $1,500 or Greater and the Victim is 62 Years of Age or Older (Felony)

Troopers are asking anyone who may have been defrauded by Kurtz in a similar manner to please contact Troop 4 Financial Crimes at 302-856-5850. Information may also be provided by sending a Private Facebook Message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.