Dutchess County homeowners accuse contractor of scam

The homeowners say they paid Lagrangeville contractor, Hugo Osorio, hefty deposits to renovate their bathrooms in 2022 and 2023, but that the jobs were left incomplete or shoddily done.

Blaise Gomez

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Jun 21, 2023, 7:04 PM

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Updated 549 days ago

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A group of Dutchess County homeowners turned to News 12 for help exposing a contractor who they say scammed them out of thousands of dollars and left their homes in shambles.

The homeowners say they paid Lagrangeville contractor, Hugo Osorio, hefty deposits to renovate their bathrooms in 2022 and 2023, but that the jobs were left incomplete or shoddily done.

“I don't have plumbing and haven't had a full bathroom since Feb. 21," said Nereida Gonzales-Bridges.

The homeowners gave News 12 photos of the work and say altogether there are 20 people they know of in Dutchess County who were allegedly scammed out of money by Osorio, too.

"The wall they removed was a load bearing wall and our ceiling started to slope in our house," said another homeowner who asked not to be identified.

News 12 obtained a copy of a lawsuit filed in Dutchess County Supreme Court by another homeowner, Scott Alexander, who sued Osorio in 2022 for $147,867.08 and won.

Three complaints against Osorio and his business, Osorio Services, are visible on the Better Business Bureau's website along with an "F" rating.

“I kept calling and texting him,” said Kelly Blum. “There were holes in the ceiling, the grout was done incorrectly. It was just a mess.”

The homeowners say they reached out to state and local authorities for help, and state police confirm they're investigating at least one complaint against the contractor.

“Dig deep before you hire someone," said Blum. “Find reviews on people. I wish I knew that.”

News 12 reached out to several business and personal numbers found online for Hugo Osorio and his business but hasn't heard back.

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