Arrest Made in a Four-Month Home Construction Fraud Investigation
YORK COUNTY, SC – York County Detectives have charged a Clover, SC, man after an extensive four-month state and federal investigation into contracts related to residential home construction. Christian Joseph Novellino, 49, was taken into custody by deputies on December 4, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. at his home in Clover and charged with seven counts of breach of trust. Novellino is the principal/owner operator of Construction Up Homebuilders.
Multiple victims raised concerns with the York County Sheriff’s Office regarding contracts made with Mr. Novellino and Constructing Up for the building of several residential homes. Allegations suggest minimal progress or no work was completed towards fulfilling the terms of the contracts. When requesting refunds, affected parties were reportedly informed that the funds were unavailable or offered inadequate compensation.
“We are just now scratching the surface of the number of people affected by this investigation and this arrest,” said Sheriff Kevin Tolson. “We strongly feel there may be more people out there who were defrauded by Mr. Novellino and are committed to ensuring justice for all affected in this case.”
If you suspect that you or someone you know has been a victim of construction fraud involving Mr. Novellino or Constructing Up Homebuilders, we encourage you to contact our office and ask for Detective Kimbrell at 803-628-3059.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further charges may be pending.
