Elderly woman claims fort worth solar scam stole $150,000, police investigate
A Fort Worth woman, identified only as Kathy, is alleging a sophisticated fraud orchestrated by a solar panel salesman, Cartaveion Demarcus Holmon, resulting in the theft of nearly $150,000 from her and her veteran husband.
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What began as a simple vehicle parts theft investigation has rapidly escalated, revealing a pattern of deceptive sales practices linked to Holmon’s Holmon’s Solar LLC. Kathy, a retired dishwasher with a learning disability, initially sought assistance with her malfunctioning solar panels, an investment of $60,000, but the situation quickly spiraled out of control.
Her account, shared exclusively with CBS News Texas, paints a chilling picture of manipulation and exploitation. Holmon allegedly induced her to make multiple payments – $1,500 installments – under the guise of credit repair, a service he never delivered. Kathy, trusting and vulnerable, allowed him access to her home, a decision she now deeply regrets.
A cascade of financial harm
The situation rapidly deteriorated, with Holmon allegedly leading her to four different locations, purportedly to address credit card issues. Kathy, who admits to having a limited number of credit cards, found herself drowning in bills for RVs, loans, and four vehicles – none of which she ever owned or operated. “I tried to drive. I hit my neighbor across the street. I ran into their house,” she recounted, highlighting the devastating personal impact of the fraud. Her husband's military service and her vulnerability created a perfect storm for exploitation.
The damage extends far beyond the immediate financial loss. A significant lien was placed on their home, a 25-year-old property, leaving them just $6,000 away from paying off the existing $51,600 mortgage. Kathy’s credit score plummeted, effectively barring them from securing housing. “They ran my credit, and it was in the red,” she stated, a raw emotion evident in her voice. She described the sheer heartbreak of losing her family’s home and financial security.
Police action and ongoing investigation
Fort Worth Police have arrested Holmon, charging him with exploitation of the elderly. Authorities confirm four other victims have already been identified, and they believe the scope of his operation may be considerably larger. Holmon’s past as a first responder and his involvement with a local church are currently under review.
Despite a seemingly positive “A” rating from the Better Business Bureau, Holmon’s Solar LLC lacks accreditation. Anyone who believes they may have been victimized by Holmon is urged to contact Detective Crain at 817-392-4414. The investigation continues as authorities work to unravel the full extent of this alleged scam.