17 unlicensed contractors cited in Seaside as part of sting

Seventeen handymen and builders in Seaside were cited and released after a statewide undercover sting operation, Contractors State License Board officials announced Friday.

Undercover investigators from the board's Statewide Investigative Fraud Team, known as SWIFT, posed as homeowners looking for help with tree trimming, gutter installation, water heater repairs, fence building, painting and home repairs.

Although the sting took place in Seaside, the unlicensed contractors hailed from around the Central Coast.

Besides Seaside, those cited reside in Pacific Grove, Monterey, Salinas, Soledad, Marina and one in Gilroy.

The stings took place Wednesday and Thursday in Monterey, Alameda, Los Angeles, Placer, San Diego, San Luis Obispo and Sonoma counties.

Of the cities targeted, Seaside had the most citations after Redondo Beach, where 18 people were cited.

Investigators said 92 people were cited, but the number may grow because some targets still might fax or email bids to the undercover officers.

The Monterey County District Attorney's Office and Seaside police worked with the state investigators.

Seaside police Cmdr. Louis Lumpkin said the sting was similar to one conducted two years ago in the city.

Asked if Seaside was chosen as a target for any special reason, he said, "It was just our turn again."

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17 unlicensed contractors cited in Seaside as part of sting