Shawn John Michelin faces charges over alleged construction scams

Shawn John Michelin is accused of allegedly duping dozens of Canberrans out of tens of thousands of dollars through alleged fake construction jobs.

Shawn John Michelin entering Canberra City Police Station. Image supplied from ACT Policing

A man has been accused of running a string of fake tradie scams that allegedly fleeced more than $40,000 from Canberrans.

ACT man Shawn John Michelin, 26, was arrested on Wednesday after detectives swooped on a Coombs home and arrested him,

He was charged with 26 counts of obtain property by deception and faced the ACT Magistrate Court today.

Michelin’s bail was refused.

Police will allege Michelin created false social media profiles advertising building, landscaping and carpentry services, before providing quotes and taking upfront deposits for work that was never carried out.

ACT Policing say he was not qualified to perform any of the construction work he allegedly promised to his victims.

Shawn John Michelin, who was charged over alleged construction scams netting more than $40k, shortly after his arrest. Image supplied by ACT Police.

ACT Policing identified up to 22 alleged victims dating back to July 2023, with nine having already provided formal statements.

The total alleged losses sit at more than $40,000.

Acting ACT Fair Trading Commissioner Josh Rynehart said authorities would continue cracking down on fraudulent operators.

“Our priority is safeguarding Canberrans from scams and ensuring those who engage in deceptive conduct are held accountable.”

Residents are urged to check licences, verify ABNs and look for public warnings before agreeing to any work.

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Originally published as Shawn John Michelin faces charges over alleged construction scams