Man Suspected of Building Barn Without Approval, Stealing Money for Permits

TEMECULA (CNS) – A 56-year-old unlicensed contractor suspected of pocketing money for building permits that he never obtained from the city of Temecula before he proceeded with building a barn for a resident was out of custody Wednesday on a $15,000 bond. Garrett Kameo Hodson of Temecula was arrested and booked into the Byrd Detention Center in Murrieta on Monday on suspicion of theft by false pretenses, submitting false financial statements, providing professional services without certification and driving on a suspended license. Hodson posted bail Tuesday and was released from jail. According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, deputies were alerted by city of Temecula building inspectors Monday morning that Hodson and another man, as yet unidentified, had allegedly engaged in an unlawful construction project. Sgt. Frank Tiburzio said inspectors and the owner of a property in the 30700 block of San Pasqual Road revealed that Hodson had constructed a barn at the location, but without adhering to municipal requirements. "The homeowner built the barn with the belief Hodson submitted his building plans to the city and obtained the proper permits," Tiburzio said. "The investigation revealed Hodson never submitted any plans to the city, nor did he obtain the proper building permits." When Hodson returned to carry out a final site check of the completed barn, along with the other man, whom he introduced as a Temecula building official, city officials were waiting with the resident, according to the sergeant. The inspectors "confirmed the building plans Hodson was in possession of, and all related documents, were illegitimate," Tiburzio said. "It is believed Hodson’s motive was to pocket the costs for the building permits in lieu of paying the city," he said. Hodson remained at the residence after he was confronted with the evidence, Tiburzio said, but the suspect’s cohort, allegedly posing as the city building inspector, fled prior to deputies’ arrival. "This investigation continues, and we are working to identify all suspects involved," the sergeant said. There’s no record of Hodson being registered with the California Contractors State License Board. Tiburzio asked anyone who may be aware of the suspect performing similar work throughout the Temecula Valley to contact him at the sheriff’s Southwest station, 951-696-3043. Copyright 2023, City News Service, Inc.