Tampa Bay contractor under investigation makes partial refunds to some customers

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Amid multiple criminal investigations into Sundeck Pavers, the company owner has started repaying some customers.

However, customers said the payments have been slow, sporadic, or nonexistent.

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Susan Borland of Hillsborough County was among the first to seek help in February from Better Call Behnken after she said Sam Garkey of Sundeck Pavers collected more than $17,000 for materials and failed to complete the job.

Thomas Hassel of Pinellas County also reported paying a $5,500 deposit for pavers to be installed on his driveway and walkway, but said he received nothing in return.

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Following complaints in at least four Tampa Bay counties, multiple criminal investigations were confirmed.

In April, Garkey referred inquiries from 8 On Your Side Consumer Investigator to his criminal defense attorney, Paul Sisco. Sisco said he is acting as a mediator between Garkey, customers, and law enforcement.

According to Sisco, Garkey has been working to repay customers and had already returned $50,000. As a result, a criminal investigation in Pasco County was dropped.

However, as of this week, numerous customers said they had received no money and were losing hope.

Hours after receiving a call for comment, Sisco said Garkey had paid the Borlands $1,500 Monday morning and was setting up a monthly payment plan for the remaining $16,000 balance.

“He is trying in good faith to make payments as he can,” Sisco said. He is not sitting on a beach somewhere. He is trying to get this done.”

A spokesperson for the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office said their investigation is ongoing and a detective is in contact with Garkey’s attorney regarding Pinellas County customers who are owed refunds.

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