Rick Patrick
reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com
A swimming pool construction company, Quality Pools and Patio, in Valdosta has been accused of scamming customers in South Georgia and North Florida.
According to a report from WCTV, Jerry Maxwell “Max” Ward, Jr., the owner of Quality Pools and Patio, surrendered himself at the Lowndes County Jail on Tuesday, Aug. 9. Ward has been accused of accepting payments for pool installation, but never installing the pools. At times, it has been alleged, he either failed to do the work, or he failed to pay sub-contractors for their work. This has led to liens being taken out on the customers' property.
So far, Ward is facing 14 felony charges of Conversion of Payments for Real Property Improvements. The case is being investigated by both the Lowndes County and Thomas County Sheriff's Offices.
Anyone who feels they have been the victim of a scam by Ward, or his company, is urged to contact their local sheriff's office. The Suwannee County Sheriff's Office can be reached at (386) 362-2222, the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office can be reached at (386) 792-1001, and the Lafayette County Sheriff's Office can be reached at (386) 294-1222.