Police: Owner of Rehoboth furniture store never delivered purchases

The owner of Oceanside Casual Furniture faces felony theft charges after police say he took money for furniture purchases but never delivered.

In July, Rehoboth Beach police began investigating Francis Lutz, 55, of Lewes after receiving several reports that he never delivered purchased furniture. Police said a Georgetown homeowners association paid $1,960 for poolside furniture; a Magnolia woman, 91, paid $3,000 for outdoor furniture; and a Rehoboth Beach woman, 71, paid $5,500 for furniture. In all cases, police said, the victims paid for the furniture, but it was never delivered and they were not reimbursed.

Detectives obtained warrants for Lutz’s arrest. He turned himself in at Troop 4 Aug. 22, and was charged with four counts of felony theft over $1,500 where the victim is over 62, felony theft under $1,500 where the victim is over 62, felony theft over $1,500, and theft under $1,500. He was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2 and released on his own recognizance. 

Lutz could not be reached for comment when contacted earlier about whether the store was closing.

Rehoboth Beach Police Department detectives ask anyone who may have been defrauded by Lutz to contact them at 302-227-2577. Information may also be provided by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.