Tommy Clack is a paving contractor with a history of consumer complaints and arrest warrants in both Carolinas. Now he's at it again in another state.
A paving contractor with a history of consumer complaints and arrest warrants in both Carolinas is at it again in another state.
Police in Maryland have issued arrest warrants for Tommy Clack, who lists a Myrtle Beach address.
Maryland law enforcement agencies say Clack may be identifying himself as "Tommy Clark" in some of his dealings.
This week, Clack was found to be in contempt of court in North Carolina for violating a court order that banned him from working in that state.
Charles Launi of Myrtle Beach is well aware of Clack's work. Clack repaved Launi's driveway in October, 2009 and Launi said there were problems with the job from the day it was finished.
"It's all cracked. We patched some few holes. As a matter of fact, we just recently patched a few more holes," Launi said.
Launi wrote two checks to Clack for $7,500 to pay for the work, but immediately stopped payment on the checks after seeing a report on NewsChannel 15 about Clack's arrest in Florence on charges of obtaining goods under false pretenses. Launi has not lost any money to the contractor, but that's not because Clack didn't try. Launi said Clack came back to his home twice demanding payment within a couple of months after the work was done.
"And he said well, you can expect to see my lawyer and I said, well, my lawyer would love to see your lawyer," Launi said. He never heard from Clack again.
Kathy Graham, CEO of Better Business Bureau of Coastal Carolina said she believes Clack is "on the road and running strong" in Maryland.
Although we've heard reports he could be operating in the Lowcountry of South Carolina.
"He just seems to fly under the radar, until enough people bring it to the attention (of local authorities)," Graham said.
Graham said Clack's usual mode of operation is to target neighborhoods populated with senior citizens. He'll knock on their doors, Graham said, and claim that he has asphalt material left over from a big job nearby so he can offer them a discounted price for repaving their driveway.
"He's nice, he's friendly, people fall for it unfortunately. Any time someone knocks on your door, you need to check them out."
Graham said consumers can view a contractor's record at the BBB web site. She said Clack has an F rating from the BBB and a long list of consumer complaints. Graham advises consumers not to fall for high-pressure sales tactics or contractors who ask to sign off on a deal on the spot.
"You don't want to do anything immediately," she said.
Launi knows all about those high pressure tactics and admits he was "quite gullible" to fall for Clack's pitch. Launi has advice for any other seniors who might find Clack knocking at their door.
"I would tell him get back on your truck and go elsewhere."
