Aussie Sheds Albany customers unlikely to see a cent of lost money as amount owed by Armand Javellana tops $1m

Liquidators have told Aussie Sheds Albany customers they are unlikely to see a cent of their lost money as the amount reportedly owed by shed builder Armand Bato Javellana tops $1.1 million. As revealed by the Advertiser last month, Mr Javellana, pictured above, was declared bankrupt on August 11. Customers claim Mr Javellana became increasingly difficult to contact once their deposits were transferred into his bank accounts before his bankruptcy declaration. Contractors employed to complete some of the works promised say they were also left thousands of dollars out of pocket by his bankruptcy. The owner of a small Albany earthmoving company — who claims to be owed $10,000 — said he was forced to downsize and lay off a staff member. A recent creditors’ report, issued last week by WA Insolvency Solutions and obtained by the Advertiser, outlines a WA Police investigation into Mr Javellana’s defunct Milpara business. WA Insolvency Solutions’ David Hurt and Jimmy Trpcevski were appointed bankruptcy trustees last month. “WA Police Force, pursuant to a search warrant, undertook a search of the (Mr Javellana’s) private residence and business premises and seized a number of items belonging to Mr Javellana, including business records,” the report said. “I received confirmation from the police that they have reviewed and copied the relevant physical documents required for the police investigation. “The police also advised that they do not intend to review the electronic items on the basis no criminal intent was able to be substantiated to consider criminal prosecution.” A WA Police spokeswoman confirmed a joint investigation by Albany detectives and the Financial Crimes Squad would not lead to criminal charges. “The investigation failed to identify criminal behaviour, rather it identified possible breaches of a contractual nature, which are not a matter for police,” the spokeswoman said. “It is recommended alleged victims seek legal advice to explore their options on possible civil court proceedings.” Mr Javellana employed six staff members through Aussie Sheds Albany. Of the $1.1m owed by Mr Javellana at the time of his bankruptcy, $940,000 is attributed to customer claims. A Consumer Protection spokesman said as of this week it had received claims of unfinished works from 50 customers.