A Haines City pastor was arrested after police say he defrauded an elderly woman out of more than $35,000, police say.
Abner Rolan serves as the senior pastor of Calvary First Assembly in unincorporated Haines City, and police say he targeted an 85-year-old woman with visual, hearing and mobility impairments.
Haines City PD says the woman, who lives with a caretaker, was looking for roofing and flooring repairs to be made so she could sell the home.
Rolon reportedly gave her a business card in June for "A Servant's Hand" that presented himself as a contractor licensed to perform a number of services. While the caretaker was away, Rolon insisted more services were necessary in order for her to sell the home.
Authorities say Rolon sent the victim six bills between July and September for work done, totaling $36,440.
Haines City Building Division and Code Compliance unit found that light fixtures, electrical work, windows, ceiling fans and a water heater were installed incorrectly and needed to be completely redone.
Rolon also reportedly charged the victim for roof and porch repairs, which officials say appeared to never have been made.
The investigation revealed Rolon is not licensed for electrical or contracting work, nor did he pull permits to complete the work. His business was neither licensed nor insured, police say.
"To take advantage of an elderly woman trying to sell her home and to this extent, is simply unconscionable," Chief Jim Elensky said. "We should be able to rely on our local pastors to serve as community leaders -- not lying, stealing and taking advantage of people."
Rolon was arrested and charged with scheming to defraud in the amount of more than $20,000, exploitation of the elderly and presenting himself as a contractor without a license.
