Chickasha ex-convict accused of tree-trimming fraudChickasha ex-convicto acusado de fraude de recorte de árbol
Tuesday, July 5th, 2011A Chickasha tree trimmer was accused Wednesday by the state attorney general of cheating five women who paid for unnecessary or incomplete service.
Brian Howell Thornburg, 32, operator of Nationwide Tree Service in Chickasha, was charged with five felony counts of exploiting the elderly.
Thornburg often would claim trees were diseased or infested with termites to get additional money, according to the charges filed in Oklahoma and Cleveland counties.
One 80-year-old Norman woman paid him nearly $11,000 this year, according to the charges.
“It hurts,” that victim told The Oklahoman.
“Older homeowners, especially those who live alone, need to be aware of such scams and how to avoid them,” said Tom Bates, an assistant attorney general. “If you are approached by someone you did not call, do not answer the door. Call a family member and report the incident to the AG’s public protection unit. We need to know about fraud, so we can continue our efforts to stop it.”
Thornburg has a 2000 conviction for assault and battery on a police officer and a 2006 conviction for violation of a protective order, an attorney general investigator reported.
Thornburg could not be reached for comment. Messages to his business were not returned.
If you are being charged with a criminal offense and need legal assistance, please contact The Swain Law Firm at (405)501-0827 to receive a free consultation.
Law Offices of Matt Swain
405-501-0827



