Lake County Contractor Refutes Felony Charges

Lake County builder Adam Shaf is facing felony charges accusing him of misappropriating clients’ funds without completing home and pool renovations.

Shaf recently defended himself against those allegations, Crain’s reported.

“When you or someone makes comments that I took money and didn’t finish the work, that is not correct,” Shaf told the outlet. “We took money progressively as we did the work.”

Shaf’s troubles escalated when three former clients and one ex-business partner claimed losses exceeding $800,000. In response to mounting allegations, the Lake County sheriff issued an arrest warrant for Shaf in January, following an investigation by the state’s attorney’s office.

Shaf surrendered to authorities and faces three felony charges, including money laundering, theft and home repair fraud. Shaf avoided the media until recent accusations from another former partner prompted him to respond, the outlet said.

Represented by Arlington Heights attorney Maelene Torres, Shaf’s former clients sued him and several others in Lake County Circuit Court. Torres characterized Shaf’s dealings with clients as an extensive scheme, distinct from typical homeowner-contractor tensions.

Shaf countered accusations from clients such as Annamarie Stornello, asserting that contractual agreements were almost fulfilled.

“We were 99 percent done,” Shaf wrote. “I completed everything Annamarie contracted, with the exception of installing one window.”

Similar grievances were voiced by clients Daniel and Tonia Etoh, who paid $300,000 for pool renovations that allegedly weren’t completed.

James Akmakjian, another dissatisfied client, contracted Shaf for backyard renovations and a new swimming pool. He alleges that Shaf never started work and didn’t provide a refund, the outlet said.

The charges against Shaf carry significant penalties, including potential prison time and fines up to $25,000. Shaf’s court appearance is scheduled for March 21.

—Quinn Donoghue