Police investigate Clarence contractor

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - His customers call him a crooked contractor who's been fleecing people for years. Now, police are urging any other alleged victims to come forward.

A year ago, there was supposed to be a new driveway. Paul Thibault of West Seneca paid a concrete contractor more than $2500 to start. He still has nothing to show for it.

Thibault said, "Nicest guy you'd ever meet; he's not the nicest guy."

Jeff Yandow of Buffalo had a similar experience, using the same contractor.

Yandow said, "Never finished sealing the driveway and during winter with salt on it, it's all pitted."

Amherst Police aren't surprised as they continue to investigate Salvatore Capizzi. The Clarence contractor was recently arrested there on a grand larceny charge. Detectives now believe there are more alleged victims out there.

Amherst Police Detective Lieutenant Richard Walter said, "We want people to be aware this exists and if victimized by this individual, let us know."

Those who specialize in concrete seem well aware of the complaints. One company claims Capizzi owes them $3,000. Documents on file at the Erie County Clerk's Office show a number of other judgements against him.

Lt. Walter said, "Any time you have someone in construction with history of judgements you have to look out, just to be safe nothing occured."

Mr. Capizzi did return News 4's Lorey Schultz' calls and they spoke at great length. While he declined an on camera interview he did stand behind his 25 years of work, and directed News 4 to locations he claims he worked to the satisfaction of customers.

Doctor Sheehan was among them.

But not some homeowners who feel ripped off.

Thibault said, "I think he should be in jail."

Yandow said, "I think it's only way to stop him, and discourage others from doing the same thing."

Lt. Walter said, "If any one has any information, call the Amherst Police Department."

Capizzi has hired an attorney to help him deal with the complaint in Amherst. He expects to be cleared, but detectives aren't so sure as they try to build a possible 'scheme to defraud' case against him.

Any one with information is asked to call Amherst Police at 689-1333.