CHARLEVOIX — Alexander Diegel, the contractor previously reported to have defrauded several Michigan clients, is facing multiple felony charges in Charlevoix County after failing to complete a $97,250 roofing project for First Congregational United Church of Christ.
The church paid Diegel upfront for materials and work, but after completing only a small portion of the roof, he stopped communicating, leaving the project unfinished. Less than 10% of the project was completed, forcing the church to hire a new contractor to finish the work and take on a significant loan to cover costs.
Pastor Toby Jones says the church has focused on financial recovery, carefully adjusting its budget and finding ways to continue funding its ministries and community programs despite the setback. Church leaders worked closely with the board of trustees and treasurer to reconfigure spending and manage the loan, while congregation members contributed generously to help offset the loss.
“The priority has always been supporting the community through our ministries,” Jones said. “We’ve worked hard to make sure those efforts continue, and I’m proud of how our trustees, treasurer, and congregation have come together during this difficult time.”
The church has also implemented stricter safeguards for future projects, including more thorough vetting of contractors and reconsidering upfront payments. Leaders remain hopeful that the ongoing legal proceedings may eventually provide some financial relief.