“As alleged, six defendants worked together to take advantage of a grieving family, posing as heirs, and committing deed theft to steal their property. During a time when housing is scarce, I will not stand for fraudsters coming to Harlem to try and perpetrate these pernicious schemes. This type of alleged conduct preys on longtime New Yorkers, and we will prosecute those who take advantage of homeowners,” said District Attorney Bragg. “If you or someone you know suspects deed fraud, please contact our Housing and Tenant Protection Unit at 212-335-3300 or email Danyhousing@dany.nyc.gov.”

“Juan Valoy allegedly preyed on New Yorkers who were simply looking for a stable place to live at a time when affordable housing is scarce. The defendant allegedly exploited these circumstances so he could line his own pockets, all while leaving families with children without a home,” said District Attorney Bragg. “We believe there are additional victims of this scheme and encourage them to contact our Immigrant Affairs Unit at 212-335-3600. Interpreters are available to assist non-native English speakers and we encourage all to reach out regardless of immigration status.”

“As alleged, Benedetto Cupo orchestrated numerous frauds over the course of years, stealing millions from hard-working New Yorkers’ wages and the public funds they rely on when hurt on the job,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Despite never filing tax returns or remitting his workers’ withholdings, we allege, his companies fraudulently secured substantial PPP loans at the height of the pandemic. This case exemplifies the work that my office’s Rackets Bureau does each and everyday: protect New Yorkers’ wages and New York’s public fisc by uncovering corruption and fraud. I thank them for their work on this case, as well as the numerous partners who helped make this prosecution possible.”

“As alleged in today’s indictment, Elhadji Sene stole the phones and wallet from two Manhattanites and proceeded to use the stolen items to make unauthorized purchases worth thousands of dollars. This is merely the latest indictment Sene faces for repeatedly stealing New Yorkers’ identities and hard-earned money,” said District Attorney Bragg. “This is an ongoing investigation. Please call us at 212-335-8900 if you may be a victim.” 

“Alexis De La Cruz will serve prison time for stealing and forging checks from older adults. I hope today’s sentencing sends a message that we will prosecute those who steal hard-earned money from Manhattanites of any age,” said District Attorney Bragg. “I urge New Yorkers to use secure electronic payment methods, when possible, to protect themselves from check fraud.”