A Denver contractor has been sentenced to 23 years in prison after defrauding clients and burglarizing homes across the city. His charges include violations of the Colorado Organized Crime Control Act (COCCA), securities fraud, theft, and multiple counts of burglary. The Denver District Attorney’s Office called the sentencing a crucial step in holding Kyle Arienta accountable for his extensive crimes.
Contractor’s Crimes and Initial Accusations
Kyle Arienta, 40, was indicted by a Denver County grand jury on 39 charges, including multiple violations under the COCCA.
His actions triggered a community-wide investigation, with prosecutors identifying a pattern of fraud and deceit that alarmed residents and left many victims in financial distress.
Beyond the initial 39 charges, Arienta also faced 11 more counts tied to completed or attempted home burglaries across prominent Denver neighborhoods like Crestmoor, Hilltop, and Washington Park.
His repeated targeting of former clients and friends deepened the impact, breaking trust and creating unease among residents who felt their homes and communities had been violated.
Details of the Financial Fraud
Arienta reportedly stole approximately $1.1 million from three families who hired him for major home construction projects, only to abandon the jobs after minimal work.
The Denver District Attorney's Office stated that these families suffered financial and emotional losses, as each was left with an incomplete home and little hope of recouping their investment.
He extended his fraud by persuading other clients and friends to invest in what he claimed were new construction projects. These projects didn’t exist, and prosecutors say Arienta stole around $1.7 million from these investors.
His scheme showed a calculated exploitation of close relationships, adding a personal betrayal to his financial crimes and further deepening the impact on his victims.
Neighborhood Burglaries and Additional Charges
Arienta's illicit activities were not restricted to fraud. He is also accused of breaking into homes in Crestmoor, Hilltop, Washington Park, and Belcaro in November 2023, which led to more charges.
For some homeowners, his actions made them feel more vulnerable and raised concerns about the safety of the area. The District Attorney's Office said that Arienta was involved in these break-ins because two families gave them surveillance tape.
This evidence was very important in linking him to the break-ins and strengthening the case that finally led to his capture with the help of the Denver and Cherry Hills Village police departments.
Legal Resolution and Statements from Authorities
Arienta entered a guilty plea to five offenses and was sentenced to 23 years in prison after a protracted legal process.
Additionally, he consented to make compensation of $3.3 million, providing his victims with some financial respite. In knowing that he is being held responsible, this resolution gives his victims a feeling of closure.
In a statement, Denver District Attorney Beth McCann praised the results and acknowledged that prosecutors, investigators, and police all worked together to make it happen. According to her, Arienta's term shows that the community is still committed to justice.
McCann expressed her appreciation for the unwavering commitment of all parties involved in the prosecution of Arienta, including the detectives and victim advocates who worked tirelessly to safeguard and assist all those who were impacted.
