Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Girardville Man Charged with Theft by Deception in Gilberton Home Improvement Case


A Girardville man has been charged with theft by deception following an investigation by Frackville Police into a home improvement contract dispute involving a Gilberton property.
According to police, Juan Evangel Arias Pena, 36, of Girardville, is facing one misdemeanor count of Theft by Deception – False Impression.

Court documents state that on Friday, January 9, 2026, Frackville Police were contacted by the owner of Harman Homes LLC, regarding a contractor who allegedly accepted payment but failed to perform any work.

The owner told police that he entered into a contract with Arias Pena, owner of Y&N Construction, on January 2, 2026, to perform plumbing, electrical, flooring, ceiling and wall repairs, along with other home improvements at a residence located on Main Street in Gilberton, which is owned by Harman Homes LLC.

Police say the owner sent Arias Pena $2,000 via electronic payment on January 3, 2026, for the purchase of supplies and to begin work within five days. Arias Pena allegedly advised that supplies had been purchased; however, no supplies were delivered and no work was performed.

As of January 9, 2026, police report that communication from Arias Pena had stopped. As of Tuesday, January 27, 2026, no work had been completed and the $2,000 had not been reimbursed.

Frackville Police attempted to make contact with Arias Pena at his residence and left several voice messages at the number listed on his business card, but were unsuccessful.

Based on the investigation, police filed a criminal complaint charging Arias Pena with theft by deception.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled before Magisterial District Judge Edward Tarantelli on February 25, 2026.