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Delaware State Police

Superintendent Colonel William D. Crotty


State Police Arrest Dagsboro Man for Home Improvement Fraud


Date Posted: Friday, September 26th, 2025

Delaware State Police have arrested 45-year-old James Gustafson, Jr. of Dagsboro, Delaware, for home improvement fraud.

Beginning in November 2024, troopers began investigating James Gustafson, Jr., for home improvement fraud. During the investigation, troopers learned that Gustafson had signed a contract with the 60-year-old victim to do construction work and received $30,000 in payment. Gustafson never completed the work and the victim’s money was not reimbursed. A warrant was obtained for his arrest.

On September 24, 2025, Gustafson was arrested by Ocean View Police Department and turned over to troopers. He was charged with the crime listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on his own recognizance.

  • Home Improvement Fraud by False Pretense – $1,500 or Greater (Felony)

Troopers are asking anyone who may have been defrauded by Gustafson 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.

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Disclaimer: Any individual charged in this release is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.


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