Beginning in August of 2018, the Madera County Sheriff’s Office received several reports of fraud regarding well-pump services in various areas within Eastern Madera County. Due to the recurring nature of these incidents, Madera County Sheriff’s Detectives initiated an investigation, and identified the company DeMasters Pump as possibly being responsible for these thefts.
Following a months-long investigation, Madera County Sheriff’s detectives confirmed that Marc DeMasters, a 38-year-old Oakhurst resident, was operating DeMasters Pump, a well pump and drilling company, without a valid contractor’s license. While conducting business, DeMasters admitted to installing used replacement parts, despite charging for and certifying new parts, on at least several occasions. DeMasters fraudulently endorsed the installation of new parts to his customers, who did not discover the discrepancies until a later date.
On Dec. 17, 2018, Madera County sheriff’s detectives took Demasters into custody. He was subsequently arrested and booked in at the Madera County Department of Corrections for multiple felony counts of embezzlement of an elder by a non-caretaker, felony grand theft, and several counts of misdemeanor contracting without a license.
The investigation remains ongoing. At the time of this release, there are 5 known victims in this case, all of whom are over the age of 62 years old. The estimated total losses are more than $19,000. If you or someone you know believe you may be a victim relating to this case, contact the Madera County Sheriff’s Office at 675-7770.