BENZIE COUNTY — A Kingsley man was arraigned Wednesday on charges that he defrauded Northern Michigan homeowners of more than $400,000. Travis Reimer, 55, faces two felony counts of Contractor-Fraudulent use of Building Contract Fund following a monthslong investigation by Michigan State Police.
The investigation, by the MSP Traverse City Post, began on Oct. 23, 2024. Preliminary findings revealed that homeowners across three counties paid Reimer for construction work that was either left unfinished or resulted in subcontractors being left unpaid.
The alleged fraud happened between 2017 and 2024.
Investigators found that homeowners hired Reimer for home additions and other residential construction projects. While some work was completed by subcontractors, State Police say Reimer failed to pay those workers and used the money for personal gain. The investigation involves services and projects across Benzie, Grand Traverse and Antrim counties.
Following a formal review of the findings, the Benzie County Prosecutor’s Office authorized a warrant for Reimer’s arrest. Reimer was arrested on Jan. 28 and taken to the Benzie County Jail. Officials noted the arrest happened without incident. He appeared for his arraignment on Jan. 29 in Benzie County’s 85th District Court.
MSP believes there may be additional victims in the community who had contact with Reimer. Michigan State Police are asking anyone who believes they were defrauded to contact the Traverse City Post at 231-938-0714.
Reimer is scheduled to return to court for his next appearance on Feb. 19 at 1:00 p.m.