Augusta County realtor found guilty of felony construction fraud

A local judge found Augusta County realtor Amy Argenbright guilty of two felony counts of construction fraud following a trial and deliberation, AugustaFreePress reported. The verdict was based on evidence showing fraudulent intent alongside financial mismanagement.

Trial evidence revealed that advance payments meant for construction were misused, including a nearly $52,000 advance that was partially applied to delinquent mortgage payments rather than the intended home construction. A bank employee testified that the mortgage was seven months behind.

Additionally, large deposits from victims were transferred from Argenbright's business account into a personal account shared with her husband, which the judge described as a pattern of broken promises and deception.

The judge emphasized that criminal intent was a critical element proven in the case, noting that both financial ineptitude and fraudulent intent were present. Sentencing is scheduled for February 23, following a presentence report.

The defense attorney acknowledged the difficulty of the situation, stating his client got in over her head, while one victim expressed relief and called for a jail sentence, urging others to review the evidence.