A Houston man has been charged for allegedly orchestrating a massive generator scam that targeted businesses across Texas.
$500K Generator Theft Scheme
According to Harris County Precinct 1 Constable Alan Rosen, 46-year-old James Eric Barnes is accused of scamming 30 distributors and stealing nearly $500,000 worth of backup power generators. Authorities have charged him with engaging in organized criminal activity.
Barnes allegedly used stolen credit card numbers obtained online to buy stationary generators, each valued between $7,000 and $10,000.
“He would then get Craigslist drivers to pick the generators up, move them to another location, and list them on Facebook Marketplace at significantly reduced prices,” Rosen explained.
Attempts to Steal Nearly $1M
Investigators suspect Barnes attempted to defraud businesses of more than $900,000, but some transactions were intercepted before shipment.
“He preyed on businesses that provide emergency supplies and on people trying to protect their homes and families during disasters,” Rosen said. “As our investigation continues, we anticipate more suspects will be charged.”
Court records indicate Barnes purchased generators from businesses in Austin, Beaumont, Brookshire, Dallas, and San Antonio, later selling them in Harris County and nearby areas.
Stolen Generators Recovered
During the investigation, Precinct 1 constable deputies found 10 new generators still in their original packaging inside a storage shed. Investigators estimate he sold about two generators per week for an entire year.
“These generators aren’t going to work anyway,” Rosen said. “Once they’re reported into our system and flagged by the Generac company, they become unusable.”
Fake Identities and Additional Crimes
Barnes is also accused of using fake names—including John Hoover, Michael Martin, and Ronny Martin—to carry out fraudulent transactions. Authorities said he was also involved in illegally reselling rideable lawnmowers.
If convicted, Barnes could face a life sentence. Law enforcement urges anyone who believes they were scammed by him to contact Precinct One at 713-755-7628.
