Fort Worth Couple’s Fraud Leaves North Texas Families with Unfinished Homes

In a troubling case in Fort Worth, a couple is accused of defrauding numerous families in North Texas who sought to build their dream homes. Christopher and Raquelle Judge reportedly collected millions for custom home builds and renovations but failed to deliver on their promises. Approximately 40 victims are now left with unfinished homes, showcasing empty rooms and halted construction sites.

Fraudulent Activities of the Judges

The Judges, owners of Judge DFW LLC, presented themselves as experts in custom homes, renovations, and interior design. Investigators claim they knowingly took large payments from clients without any intention to complete the work. In the words of Fort Worth attorney Joe Tolbert, “There is a clear line between poor business practices and criminal fraud.”

Client Affected

• One couple in Decatur invested $364,000.
• Overall losses across at least 24 projects have reached approximately $4.8 million.

Deceptive Marketing Techniques

Prosecutors revealed that the Judges attracted clients via social media, offering enticingly low bids and quick completion times. Tolbert noted that it appeared the couple merely pocketed client funds without advancing any construction.

Financial Misuse

Records indicate that the Judges used client money for various personal expenses, including rent, tuition, and luxury items. Some funds even went towards plastic surgery. Additionally, in May 2022, the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners warned Christopher Judge for misrepresenting himself as a licensed architect, which he was not.

Importance of Verifying Builders’ Credentials

This case serves as a crucial reminder for homeowners planning major construction undertakings. It emphasizes the importance of verifying a builder’s credentials, licenses, and references prior to entering into contracts.

Legal Consequences

Recently, Christopher Judge pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, facing up to 20 years in federal prison. Raquelle Judge pleaded guilty in December. Attempts to obtain comments from Christopher Judge and his attorney were unsuccessful.

As this situation unfolds, it highlights the need for thorough vetting in the construction industry to protect homeowners from fraudulent practices.