In a significant legal development, the owners of M&L Cabinets, a Bradenton-based cabinet business, have been convicted for defrauding customers of over $310,000.

The convictions follow a detailed investigation by the Bradenton Police Department, revealing a scheme where customers paid substantial amounts for kitchen renovations that were never completed.

Background of the Case

The investigation into M&L Cabinets commenced in February 2023 after numerous customer complaints. Detective Michael Carpenter led the inquiry, uncovering that nearly two dozen customers had made down payments ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars for products and services that were either partially fulfilled or not delivered at all. Additionally, the company failed to pay suppliers for cabinets that had been ordered and received.

Financial Misconduct Unveiled

Financial records subpoenaed during the investigation revealed that from August 2022 to January 2023, company owner Ryan Nobles misused the company’s credit card, incurring approximately $220,000 in charges at casinos located in Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, and on cruise ships. During the same period, co-owner Nicole Anderson utilized her company credit card for purchases and ATM withdrawals totaling around $90,000. Despite these expenditures, Nobles and Anderson continued to collect payments from clients without delivering the promised services.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

The legal proceedings culminated in significant sentences for both individuals. Ryan Nobles was convicted of misapplication of construction funds amounting to $100,000 or more, a first-degree felony. He received a sentence of 30 months in the Department of Corrections, followed by 27 years of probation. The exact restitution amount he is required to pay will be determined by a judge at a future date. Nicole Anderson pleaded guilty to felony scheming to defraud in excess of $50,000. She was sentenced to 21 months in prison, followed by 20 years of probation, and was ordered to pay $88,507 in restitution.

Impact on the Community

This case has had a profound impact on the Bradenton community. Many customers who trusted M&L Cabinets with their home renovation projects were left with incomplete work and financial losses. The fraudulent activities not only affected individual homeowners but also strained relationships with suppliers who were not compensated for their products. The local business community has expressed concern over the breach of trust and the potential long-term effects on consumer confidence.

Preventative Measures and Consumer Awareness

In light of this case, authorities are urging consumers to exercise caution when making substantial down payments for services. It’s recommended to verify the credentials of contractors and businesses, ensure contracts are detailed and transparent, and consider using payment methods that offer some form of buyer protection. Regularly monitoring the progress of contracted work and maintaining open communication can also help in identifying potential issues early.

The convictions of Ryan Nobles and Nicole Anderson serve as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of fraudulent business practices. This case underscores the importance of ethical conduct in business operations and the need for consumers to remain vigilant. The Bradenton Police Department continues to encourage any individuals who believe they may have been defrauded by M&L Cabinets to come forward and report their experiences.