The Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office has announced the arrests of Jacob Key and Brooklyn Key following allegations of home improvement fraud. VCSO says the investigation focused on contacts some residents entered into involving the repair of storm damage sustained around April 2, 2024.

The victims reportedly experienced significant damage to their homes due to fallen trees. Authorities say the victims made substantial down payments to Keys Contracting, which is owned by Jacob and Brooklyn Key.

Authorities say the payments totaled approximately $178,114.55. Some work was completed on the residences, but authorities claim the quality of repairs was inadequate. In at least one instance, the repair was in violation of the Indiana Building Code.

VCSO alleges that the contracts did not meet the requirements of the Indiana Contract Code. It is also alleged that the work commenced before necessary building permits and insurance authorization.

VCSO says the victims now face the burden of having to hire legitimate contractors to fix the faulty repairs and complete the required work. The victims have also initiated civil suits against Keys Contracting.

33-year-old Jacob Andrew Key is charged with three counts of Fraud. 27-year-old Brooklyn Deshae Key is charged with three counts of Fraud.