Unicoi business owner to face felony charges

Published 12:05 pm Thursday, June 30, 2022

According to Sheriff Keith Sexton, Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) Criminal Investigation Division (CID) arrested Steven Chase Willis, 27, of Erwin, on June 25 for theft over $10,000; theft of services over $10,000; worthless checks over $500; and deceptive business practices.

Willis is the owner of Earth Effects Landscaping, which is based in Unicoi. WCSO began receiving complaints of a landscaping business that was contracting with customers in the Washington County Jurisdiction. The landscaping business was taking large down payments from customers and then not returning to start the job. The business apparently ceased operations after several thousands of dollars were taken from customers as down payments for projects contracted through Willis.

After an investigation, Willis was charged and bond was set at $7,500. He is currently being held in Unicoi County and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.  Anyone in Washington County that has been victimized by Willis and/or his business, Earth Effects, is urged to call WCSO at (423) 788-1414 to make a report.