A jury has convicted 39-year-old Robert Ybarra of Theft of Property valued between $30,000 and $150,000 after he defrauded a retired and disabled veteran in a home improvement scheme.
Ybarra was hired as a general contractor by the veteran to work on a home renovation project. During the course of the work, Ybarra repeatedly requested large sums of money for materials such as lumber, windows, and roofing, but failed to deliver the items or complete the project. He also did not provide receipts or refunds for the funds he received, leaving the victim with significant financial losses.
Amber Moore, lead prosecutor, along with second-chair Steve Fawcett, presented evidence from another victim who also lost tens of thousands of dollars in a similar scheme orchestrated by Ybarra. The jury also heard from DeAnna Debenport, the DA’s financial analyst, who reviewed the defendant's bank records, demonstrating that Ybarra had used the money for personal expenses instead of project-related purchases.
District Attorney Investigator Alex Lipsey supported the case with further investigative findings, confirming Ybarra’s intent to deceive his victims.
The jury found Ybarra guilty of defrauding his victim and sentenced him to 10 years in prison, which will be probated for 5 years. Additionally, Ybarra will serve 60 days in jail and is required to pay $70,500 in restitution.
