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Long Island man charged with grand larceny for $150,000 real estate fraud
Criminal Defense
A Long Island man was arrested for real estate fraud in which he allegedly swindled two women from Freeport out of more than $150,000 while posing as a realtor. He was charged with two counts of grand larceny in the scheme, which took place over a three-year period.
Rickie Roberts, 58, was arrested after a joint investigation by Nassau County Police in conjunction with the New York State Department of Financial Services. He was charged with grand larceny in the second and third degrees, both of which are felonies.
Authorities launched the investigation after receiving a mortgage fraud complaint against Roberts from the two women in August 2015. The women were not identified.
The women claimed that Roberts pretended to be a real estate agent, showing them many different properties over the course of three years. Police said he allegedly told the pair they had to pay banking fees and make down payments to demonstrate good faith. The women gave him cashier’s checks totaling more than $150,000. However, no real estate deal went forward.
Grand larceny consists of theft that totals $1,000 or more. The charge carries a maximum prison sentence of 25 years. Mortgage fraud and other related charges require a well-crafted defense. Brill Legal Group’s criminal defense lawyers are experienced in providing skilled representation in such cases. Remember, if you are facing accusations of fraud, do not say anything to the authorities before speaking to a lawyer.