Fort Worth, January 7, 2026

Homeowners in Fort Worth are facing emotional and financial turmoil after being scammed out of nearly $5 million by Christopher and Raquelle Judge under Judge DFW LLC. The couple falsely presented themselves as licensed contractors and collected payments from numerous victims in North Texas. Many victims are left with incomplete renovations and facing additional costs to repair their homes. Legal proceedings are underway as the Judges plead guilty to multiple charges, highlighting the critical need for consumer awareness in contractor selection.

Fort Worth Homeowners Face Emotional and Financial Hardships After Renovation Scam

Fort Worth, Texas – Homeowners in Fort Worth are grappling with significant emotional and financial distress following a home renovation scam that defrauded them of nearly $5 million. The perpetrators, Christopher and Raquelle Judge, operated under the guise of Judge DFW LLC, promising custom homes and renovations that were never completed.

Details of the Scam

Between August 2020 and January 2023, the Judges collected substantial payments from over 40 victims across multiple North Texas counties. They falsely represented that Christopher Judge was a licensed architect and offered below-market bids for custom architecture, construction, and interior design services. However, after initiating projects and accepting multiple installment payments, they abandoned the work, leaving homeowners with incomplete and unsafe living conditions. In some cases, families were left without livable homes, facing additional expenses to complete or repair the work.

Emotional and Financial Impact on Victims

The victims have reported profound emotional and financial consequences. Many are still paying for unfinished work and have lost trust in the home renovation process. The financial strain has led to increased debt, reliance on credit cards, and, in some cases, bankruptcy. The emotional toll includes stress, anxiety, and a sense of betrayal, as families were deceived by individuals they trusted.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

Christopher and Raquelle Judge have pleaded guilty to a wire fraud conspiracy charge. Christopher Judge faces up to 20 years in federal prison, while Raquelle Judge faces up to five years. Sentencing is scheduled for the coming months.

Preventive Measures and Consumer Advice

Homeowners are advised to exercise caution when selecting contractors. It’s recommended to choose contractors with established physical addresses and to obtain multiple bids in writing. Verifying the contractor’s credentials and seeking references can help prevent falling victim to similar scams.

Background on Home Improvement Scams

Home improvement scams are fraudulent schemes where individuals or companies offer home improvement or repair services, often at a low cost or with promises of high-quality work, but fail to deliver on their commitments. These scams can leave homeowners with incomplete or shoddy work, financial losses, and property damage.

Conclusion

The Fort Worth home renovation scam has left numerous families facing significant hardships. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and due diligence when hiring contractors to ensure the safety and integrity of home improvement projects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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