BROOKSVILLE, Fla. — A Brooksville man has been arrested on four counts of unlicensed contracting, following an investigation by the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) and the Hernando County Building Department.
Brandon Vicente, 40, was taken into custody on December 11, 2024, after a warrant was issued for his arrest. The charges stem from four separate incidents of unlicensed contracting that occurred in November in Hernando Beach and Brooksville. The violations were discovered during a routine county inspection.
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The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office emphasized its commitment to protecting residents from the risks posed by unlicensed contractors.
“Hiring contractors who lack proper licensing and credentials can result in unsafe work, legal liabilities, and financial losses for homeowners,” the HCSO stated. “Unlicensed contractors often bypass safety standards and quality checks, which can put your property and family at serious risk.”
Authorities warned that unlicensed contractors often operate without insurance, leaving homeowners responsible for any accidents or damages that occur during a project.
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Homeowners are urged to take precautionary steps when hiring contractors. The HCSO encourages residents to:
- Verify that contractors are licensed and insured.
- Check references and credentials before starting a project.
- Report any suspicious or unlicensed activity to local authorities.
By taking these precautions, homeowners can ensure that their home improvement projects are conducted safely, legally, and to proper standards.
The investigation into unlicensed contracting in Hernando County remains ongoing.
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