Sure fraud falls under criminal law.. But the word fraud is vague, Did he "intend" to obtain services in means to defraud the shop..? Which means they would need to prove his intentions.. This type of fraud requires an "Intent factor" in order to convict.. But judging from his criminal background with white collar crimes Im sure the judge would be judgmental lol..

This is what I see happening realistically.. Hopefully this shop had the rates and such posted on the wall if not I recommend they do in the future so that they can say they had the rates posted in plain sight.. But I don't think the judge will grant a 17k bill he might do half of that if given the right amount of proof.. Its unfortunate but the burden of proof is on the shop
Its just illogical to be as careless as the shop clearly was for that amount of money.. 17k and you just take his promise that he will pay?? Better yet a verbal agreement on 17k worth or labor... Who in there right mind does that..?? Thats why i think this will be a little hard.. But im with the shop on this I hope they win.. I know how hard it is dealing with people like this.. My family has owned and operated a Car dealership in Orlando for 15 years.. I wish all the luck!