TAMPA, FL — An undercover operation targeting unlicensed contractors in Hillsborough County has led to 50 arrests, including individuals with extensive criminal histories. According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the operation, dubbed “Operation Bad Builder,” was conducted from June 1 through October 2, 2026, to identify individuals illegally offering construction and home improvement services.
Detectives with the Sheriff’s Office Construction Fraud Unit used several investigative methods, including monitoring online advertisements, reviewing social media listings, following up on complaints from residents, and arranging undercover meetings with suspected unlicensed contractors.
Among those arrested was 40-year-old Calvin Wilson, who was accused of taking on home improvement projects and leaving properties in worse condition, forcing homeowners to pay for costly repairs. Authorities said Wilson is a convicted felon with a criminal history that includes robbery, grand theft, and aggravated battery. He was previously arrested for unlicensed contracting in 2023.
Another suspect, 56-year-old Steven Andreassen, was arrested for performing electrical work without a license. According to investigators, Andreassen was arrested in June on a domestic battery by strangulation charge and has a criminal history involving prior out-of-state arrests for kidnapping, robbery, sexual battery, drug offenses, and assault with a deadly weapon on a government official.
Sheriff Chad Chronister emphasized the dangers of hiring individuals without proper licensing or training.
“A contractor’s license is more than a piece of paper. It is proof that the person working on your home has the training to do the job safely,” Chronister said.
The Sheriff’s Office is urging homeowners to verify contractor licenses through MyFloridaLicense.com, request proof of insurance, obtain written agreements, and avoid paying the full cost of a project upfront.
Anyone who believes they have been victimized by an unlicensed contractor is encouraged to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at 813-247-8200.
SOURCE: HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
