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"God fearing contractor" arrested by LPSO after WBRZ report

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LIVINGSTON PARISH- A shady contractor exposed by the WBRZ Investigative Unit on Monday was arrested on contractor fraud charges by the Livingston Parish Sheriff's Office less than 48 hours after our report.

Michael Tanner posted a $25,000 bail and was released.

James Travis praised LPSO for taking quick action against Tanner. Travis said he trusted Michael Tanner to complete the work on his home after Tanner told him he was "a God fearing man." Instead, Travis claims he paid Tanner nearly $32,000 and his home was left in shambles. Only the back half of his house had sheetrock. The front half was still left gutted. The entire place is unlivable. Tanner's arrest is welcomed news to Travis who says his family has been put through the ringer.

"We were ecstatic because we're believing in the justice system," Travis said. "We believe we can be on the right side of the law and follow whatever parameters set forth to protect us as homeowners in Livingston Parish."

The Investigative Unit showed you Monday, Tanner claimed to operate Quality Construction. However, a check of the State Contractor's Licensing Board Website indicates he's not licensed. A look into his past shows he has arrests for drugs, guns, domestic violence and felony theft.

Monday, we went to Tanner's home to talk to him. However, no one came to the door. I reached Tanner by phone today, and he referred all questions to his attorney. The line disconnected.

"I guess being crushed on the inside, it strengthened us as a family and grew us deeper in faith," Travis said. "Even though he came along as a god fearing individual god this god that blase blah...it still strengthened us in this situation with the lord."

The Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors wants to know about any unlicensed activity. You can report it by emailing complaints@lslbc.louisiana.gov or calling 1-800-256-1392. If you'd like to check to see if a contractor is licensed you can go to www.lacontractor.org

A gofund me page has been set up to help the Travis family. He doesn't expect to get his money back from Tanner. If you'd like to help the Travis family click here.

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