Tradie who escaped the jaws of death earlier this year reported to consumer affairs six times
TERRITORIANS are being warned to avoid a tradie — who once threw full beers at a croc to escape its fatal bite — after he swindled thousands from customers
Northern Territory
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TERRITORIANS are being warned to avoid a tradie — who once threw full beers at a croc to escape its fatal bite – after he swindled more than $13,000 from customers.
In a statement on social media, NT Consumer Affairs (NTCA) cautioned locals against Jayden Stockbridge, who has been reported six times TO NTCA for taking deposits from customers and not commenced or completed the work, or produce substandard work.
Earlier this year Mr Stockbridge was featured in the NT News after throwing full beers at a 3m croc circling his crashed boat in the mangroves at Middle Arm.
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He was trading primarily as a fence builder in Darwin under unregistered business Territory Erections, and formerly under All Angles Landscaping, and Above All Landscapes and Garden Maintenance.
“Mr Stockbridge has failed to co-operate with Consumer Affairs and has become uncontactable since he was initially approached with attempts to resolve the complaints,” the statement said.
“Mr Stockbridge was full of promises to his customers but when he failed to deliver and they asked for their money back, he made excuses for not taking action, stopped communicating and disappeared.
“Consumers are owed about $13,700 in payments he accepted since March 2020.
“It appears the Facebook advertising was taken down and Mr Stockbridge has left the Northern Territory after vacating both business and residential premises.”
In each of the reported cases, Mr Stockbridge issued written quotes with the highest being around $8000 — a significant outlay according to NTCA.
NTCA urged Territorians to use caution when choosing a tradesperson.
“Consumer Affairs recommends that consumers exercise caution when choosing a tradesperson, in particular when responding to advertising via Facebook Marketplace and other social media,” the statement said.
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“Don’t get caught out by the cheap price on offer, get recommendations of local, reputable businesses with proven qualifications and experience and check out their previous work.
“Consumers should also reduce their risk by not paying too much upfront.
“Anyone who has any concerns about their dealings with Jayden Stockbridge or Territory Erections, should contact NT Consumer Affairs on 1800 019 319 or email consumer@nt.gov.au.”
The NT News has attempted to contact Mr Stockbridge.
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