Riverside Resident Defrauded of Over $9,000, Contractor and Associates Charged

Riverside Township Police

Riverside, NJ

Earlier this past month, a Riverside Township resident reported to police that they had paid a general contractor to perform work at their home, however, the contractor never started the job.  The victim told police they hired William E. Nelson, 35 years, of Philadelphia, PA, through the use of the cell phone app “NEXTDOOR”.  Nelson claimed to be a private general contractor.   

The investigation found that over the course of several months, William E. Nelson accepted money from the victim to perform repair and installation work at the victim’s home in Riverside, NJ.  It was also determined that the suspect’s girlfriend, Melissa M. Slemmer, 39 years, along with his brother, Brett J. Nelson, 38 years old, also assisted in the scam.  After paying approximately $9,818 and not having any of the contracted work performed, the victim reported the incident to the Riverside Township Police.

As a result of the Riverside Township Police investigation, all three suspects were charged with 2C:20-4A Theft by Deception, a 3rd degree crime.  William E. Nelson was additionally charged with 2C:28-5 Tampering with a Witness, a 3rd degree crime, after making several attempts to coerce the victim to discontinue their complaint. 

If anyone has any additional information regarding these suspects or had a similar experience in dealing with them, please contact Riverside Township Police Detectives at detectives@riversidepolicenj.org or call 856-461-8820 x 114

We encourage anyone hiring unknown private general contractors to adhere to a few consumer protection tips. 


Consumer Protection Tips:

  • Verify Contractor Credentials: Always check if a contractor is licensed and insured.
  • Get Everything in Writing: Ensure all agreements, including payment schedules and work details, are documented.
  • Research the Business: Confirm the contractor's business address and contact information.
  • Report Fraud: If you suspect fraud, contact your local consumer protection agency or the Better Business Bureau.​

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