MALVERNE, NY – Nassau County detectives say a Yonkers man has been arrested after allegedly attempting to collect another large payment in what investigators describe as a long-running home improvement scam that cost a local senior hundreds of thousands of dollars.
According to the Fifth Squad, the incident began in October 2024 when a 78-year-old woman was approached at her home by an unknown male claiming she needed a new roof. The victim agreed to the work, which was initially estimated at $70,000. Over the following months, however, she issued a series of escalating payments that eventually totaled $398,000, despite the work never being completed.
On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 10:47 a.m., detectives moved in when Michael Anderson, 35, of Yonkers, arrived at the victim’s Malverne home to collect an additional $75,000 check. Anderson was arrested at the scene.
He has been charged with Attempted Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree. Police said Anderson was issued an appearance ticket in Nassau County court and immediately taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Investigators also noted that a second suspect remains at large and the case is ongoing.
Detectives are urging anyone who may have had similar dealings with Anderson to call the Fifth Squad at 516-573-6553.
Summary of Key Facts
| Date & Time | Incident Details |
|---|---|
| October 2024 | Scam begins: victim solicited for roof work—initial estimate $70,000 |
| Over Several Months | Victim issues multiple checks totaling $398,000 with no work completed |
| September 9, 2025, 10:47 AM | Anderson arrested while attempting to collect another $75,000 |
| Charges | Attempted Grand Larceny, 4th Degree |
| Custody | Released on appearance ticket, then taken into ICE custody |
| Investigation | Ongoing; second suspect still being sought |
| Tip Line | Fifth Squad: 516-573-6553 |
A Pattern of Scams in Nassau County
This latest arrest underscores a troubling trend in Nassau County, where police have repeatedly warned seniors to be cautious of unsolicited home improvement offers. In recent years, multiple residents have reported being pressured into paying large sums for roof repairs, driveway paving, and other construction projects that were either never completed or grossly overpriced.
In many cases, suspects target elderly homeowners, convincing them of urgent repairs, then demanding progressively larger payments. Authorities emphasize that legitimate contractors should always provide written contracts, clear estimates, and proper licensing information.
The Legal Context
Under New York law, Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree is a felony that typically applies when the value of the attempted theft is greater than $1,000. Convictions can carry prison time, probation, and restitution requirements. In scams involving vulnerable seniors, judges may also weigh aggravating circumstances.
While Anderson was charged with an attempted theft related to the $75,000 check, the broader investigation could potentially lead to additional charges based on the victim’s earlier payments and the involvement of other suspects.
Staying Safe from Home Improvement Fraud
Police recommend residents take the following precautions:
- Report suspicious activity to local authorities immediately.
- Never agree to work on the spot without verifying licenses.
- Get multiple estimates and written contracts before paying.
- Avoid large upfront payments.
