Editor’s Note: While these events occurred in Waller County, residents of Austin County should be aware that individuals accused of this type of fraud may operate across county lines. It is also possible that Austin County residents could have been impacted indirectly through family members or property located in Waller County.
Following the press release regarding the arrest of Benjamin Wood in Waller County, Sheriff Guidry and the Waller County Sheriff’s Office Detective Bureau are asking anyone who may have been a victim of Wood’s contractor-related scam to come forward.
Wood was taken into custody on March 20, 2026, and has a history of theft-related offenses, including scams dating back eight years ago to the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. He is currently on parole for those prior convictions.
On March 10, 2026, the WCSO Detective Bureau began investigating a new case involving Wood. By March 19, 2026, detectives had filed a Class A theft charge. Due to his prior theft convictions, the charge is expected to be enhanced to a state jail felony.
If convicted, a Class A misdemeanor theft charge carries a penalty of up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $4,000. If enhanced to a state jail felony, Wood could face between 180 days and two years in a state jail facility, along with fines of up to $10,000.
Investigators believe there may be additional victims in Waller County who have not yet reported similar incidents. Anyone who believes they may have been affected is encouraged to contact the WCSO Detective Bureau.
The Sheriff’s Office also urges residents to use caution when hiring contractors, especially following major storms or disasters, when fraudulent activity tends to increase.
Anyone with information or who believes they may have been a victim is encouraged to contact the Waller County Sheriff’s Office Detective Bureau at 979-826-8282 ext. 4125.
You can read the original press release HERE .
