Former Contractor's Trial Pushed Back

Escambia County, FL (Newsradio 92.3) -- The trial of a former building contractor accused of racketeering and fraud has been pushed back. According to the PNJ, Jesse Lacoste was set to appear in court today -- that's now been pushed back until September. The 33-year-old was accused of conning homeowners out of millions by taking money from homeowners and never finishing, or sometimes even starting the work on their properties. He was indicted in November of 2023 on racketeering, forgery, perjury, making false statements, theft, and insurance fraud charges. Lacoste has pleaded not guilty and is due back in court September 25th. Lacoste's brother-in-law Matthew Banks was also stripped of his contractor's license and faced similar allegations. Banks is currently awaiting trial as well.