The Walton County Sheriff’s Office arrested Michael Durward Hayes, 56, on July 10^th.  Hayes formerly owned and operated Scavenger’s Consignment Store located at 4552 US Hwy 98, Santa Rosa Beach.  The investigation began in November 2011 when victims contacted the Sheriff’s Office after noticing fraudulent purchases on their credit cards.  Hayes is charged with 5 counts of fraudulent use of a credit card, 5 counts of identity theft and 5 counts of grand theft. 

            Multiple complaints were also filed after Hayes closed Scavenger’s without notice and did not render payment nor return items currently on consignment to the rightful owners.  In addition to the above charges Hayes is also being charged with 1 count of scheme to defraud and an additional count of grand theft.

            Hayes was booked at the Walton County Jail. 

Former Scavenger’s Consignment Store Owner Arrested