HAINES CITY, FL – A local pastor was arrested Friday after being charged with exploiting an elderly woman with physical impairments for more than $35,000.
Abner Anibal Rolon, 46, of Davenport was 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. Rolon, who serves as the senior pastor of Calvary First Assembly in unincorporated Haines City, targeted an 85-year-old woman with visual, hearing, and mobility impairments.
The victim, who lives with a caretaker, was looking for roofing and flooring repairs to be made in order to sell her home. Rolon gave the victim 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.
Rolon sent the victim six bills between July and September for work done, totaling $36,440. The 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 charged the victim for roof and porch repairs, which never appeared to be made.
Further investigation determined that 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.
A warrant was issued for Rolon early last week. Rolon turned himself in on Friday.
“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.”