“As alleged, Marilyn Peter and Mark Anthony used false information to steal more than $2 million in funds intended to provide relief to businesses at the height of the pandemic,” said District Attorney Bragg. “They then allegedly used a substantial amount of those funds to purchase an apartment complex for their own profit. We will not tolerate abuse of government funds, and I thank our law enforcement partners for their work on this investigation, particularly the New York State Inspector General’s Office.” 

“As alleged, Anthony Pittman stole a woman’s identity to apply for and place a deposit on a Manhattan apartment building before turning around and renting it to a subletter under false pretenses. That subletter was then forced to vacate the apartment once the alleged fraud was discovered, while PITTMAN walked away with the supposed rent payments,” said District Attorney Bragg. “The investigation is ongoing. Please call us at 212-335-3300 if you may be a victim.”

“Nicholas Fuelling allegedly stole approximately $20,000 from at least five individuals who thought they would be moving into a Hell’s Kitchen apartment. Instead, we allege, Fuelling’s lies left people scrambling for housing, and even left one victim effectively homeless,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Scarce housing is a breeding ground for fraud, and we prosecute those who take advantage of the hopes of prospective tenants. We believe there are more victims – please contact our Housing and Tenant Protection Unit at 212-335-3300, or email danyhousing@dany.nyc.gov.”

“Jerona Smith used her access as a home health aide to steal from older adults who relied on her for care. Ms. Smith is now facing prison time for her disturbing conduct,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Those who prey on the perceived vulnerability of older New Yorkers will be prosecuted. If you or someone you know is above the age of 60 and may be a victim of a crime, I urge you to call our Elder Abuse Unit at 212-335-9007 or email EAU@dany.nyc.gov.”

“The dismantling of this illegal drug trafficking operation highlights the ability of my office’s prosecutors and analysts to trace cryptocurrency and unmask those committing crimes on the dark web,” said District Attorney Bragg. “These prosecutions resulted not only in significant convictions, but the forfeiture of millions of dollars’ worth of funds gained from selling illegal and potentially deadly drugs. Whether on the dark web or on our city’s streets, we will root out criminal organizations who put our community’s health at risk.”