Without knowing the specifics or the absolute truth about the situation on his side, I can say it's possible those things really did happen. And consider that i

Without knowing the specifics or the absolute truth about the situation on his side, I can say it's possible those things really did happen. And consider that in the alternative scenario where you had to have him on payroll as a FT/direct employee, you'd be paying regular paychecks + benefits to him this entire time. You're lucky to have the option of engaging someone only as a temporary "disposable" contractor. And for every scenario where the client appears to have been "screwed" by the developer, I guarantee you the reverse scenario has happened. Possibly even with that same guy, with the shoe on the other foot. It's truly a jungle out there.