GROVE CITY, Pa. - A Mercer County building contractor faces a court hearing next month for allegedly taking hundreds of dollars from a Grove City man for a construction job and failing to complete the work.

James Johnson, 38, of Clintonville is free on a $5,000 bond after being arraigned on charges of theft by deception and failing to perform after receiving payment for services.

According to a complaint filed by borough police, a homeowner paid Johnson’s Absolute Construction $8,800 in October to build an 18 by 24-foot structure in his backyard.

After leveling the ground and digging holes for posts, Johnson began sending the homeowner text messages explaining why the job would be delayed.

The homeowner told police that Johnson agreed to have the work finished by the end of 2022.

The two later agreed to extend the completion deadline again until April 10, according to the complaint.

It was again extended until April 14th after the homeowner contacted the police.

The charges were filed on April 15th after Johnson had not delivered the materials purchased for the job or refunded the homeowner.

Another court hearing is scheduled for May 10.