Show-Me State Times

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has secured a judgment awarding $131,022 in restitution to homeowners in Clay County. The decision follows the failure of Cory Richards to deliver on promised home repairs. Additionally, Richards is required to pay over $17,000 in civil penalties.

Attorney General Bailey stated, "As Attorney General, I will always fight to protect Missouri consumers. My Consumer Protection team thoroughly investigates complaints of fraud and takes swift action to obtain justice for Missourians who have been ripped off. Our aim is not only to hold bad actors accountable but to deliver full restitution to all affected."

Richards was found guilty of violating Missouri law by falsely promising renovations and repairs to seventeen homeowners. He accepted substantial upfront payments without fulfilling his contractual obligations, with any work done deemed substandard.

The court's ruling mandates that Richards pay the ordered restitution and fines while also barring him from advertising or selling home repair services in Missouri or managing a business where he controls customer funds.

Residents suspecting contractor scams are encouraged to contact the Missouri Attorney General’s Office through the Consumer Protection hotline at (800) 392-8222 or online at ago.mo.gov.