Salina Contractor Arrested in Two Alleged Theft-by-Deception Cases

Salina police are investigating two alleged theft-by-deception cases involving a local construction business operated by Warren Huffman, proprietor of WFO Construction.

The first case was reported by a homeowner from the southern part of Salina, who contacted WFO Construction in August to discuss home renovations. After several discussions, the victim reportedly provided an initial payment of $4,750. According to police, no construction work was ever started or completed, despite continued communication between the victim and the contractor. On December 24, the victim reported the matter to law enforcement after receiving no results. When contacted by officers, Huffman denied knowledge of the incident. Based on the information gathered, officers determined probable cause existed, and Huffman was arrested on December 24 for felony theft by deception.

A second, similar report was received on December 26 from a homeowner in the eastern part of Salina.

In that case, the victim reported hiring the same contractor in June for renovation work. The victim reportedly provided a $2,086 check in June, followed by a $3,700 payment in July, totaling $5,786, reportedly for supplies and labor. As with the first case, police say no work was performed, despite ongoing communication. Because Huffman had already been arrested and bonded out in the first case, no additional arrest was made at that time. The second case was forwarded to District Court for review and potential prosecution.

Investigators confirmed the two victims do not know one another and that both cases involve similar allegations against the same contractor. The investigation remains ongoing.