57°
Nassau County Police said the incident occurred on Friday, Nov. 22, at approximately 1:30 p.m. in South Farmingdale.
Detectives said New York City resident Cristhian Ortega Rodriguez, age 24, of the Bronx, posed as part of a scam targeting an 83-year-old man.
The victim received a phone call from someone claiming to be his grandson, who said he had been arrested and needed bail money. The victim was instructed to contact a lawyer, "Larry Hays," to arrange payment. Suspecting the call was fraudulent, the victim contacted police.
Detectives apprehended Rodriguez as he attempted to collect the payment. Police said Rodriguez resisted arrest and refused to comply with verbal commands during the apprehension.
Rodriguez is charged with:
- Grand larceny in the third degree,
- Resisting arrest
He is scheduled to be arraigned on Saturday, Nov. 23, at First District Court in Hempstead.
Authorities are asking anyone who believes they may have been victimized by Rodriguez to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Smithtown and receive free news updates.
