A Boardman home improvement contractor accused of taking money for work never completed for homeowners in four counties has been sentenced in Trumbull County Court. 

According to the prosecutor’s office in Trumbull County John Bartos III appeared before a judge on Tuesday and was sentenced to 120 days in jail.

Back in August Bartos pleaded guilty to a bill of information charging him with 10 felony counts of theft.

Investigators say Bartos contracted with ten victims for home construction projects in several Trumbull County communities. None of the work was ever completed and the amount of money taken totaled $27,460.

Defense Attorney Frank Cassese blamed Bartos' gambling addiction for his crimes.

"I’ve been seeking help and counseling for that weekly to make sure that I never put myself in this predicament again,” Bartos said to the judge in court. 

Judge Andrew Logan told Bartos he would consider an early release from jail if Bartos made full restitution to his victims.

Earlier this month Bartos pleaded guilty to multiple counts of theft in the Columbiana County Court of Common Pleas in exchange for a felony plea agreement of up to 120 days in jail and restitution for the victims.

Bartos will be sentenced for those crimes on January 4, 2024.

Meanwhile in Mahoning County, where Bartos was indicted on 27 counts, a pretrial hearing is set for November 9.

Bartos awaits trial on a charge of theft by deception in Lawrence County, Pennsylvania as well.

Legal troubles for Bartos came to light when a local man hired Bartos' construction company to replace seven windows in his condo. After putting $2,000 down, the man never heard back from him, leading the man to file a complaint.

The Better Business Bureau of Youngstown, which rates local businesses, gave Bartos’ Gridiron Doors & Windows LLC a letter grade of "F" for failing to respond to more than 14 complaints, among other reasons.

In total, Bartos is accused of scamming at least 19 people out of more than $134,000.