Brooklyn contractor indicted in $700K scam, accused of blowing money on fine dining, designer

[TexasTowelie]

Brooklyn contractor indicted in $700K scam, accused of blowing money on fine dining, designer clothes


A Brooklyn contractor accused of scamming $700,000 from a couple looking to remodel their Midwood home used the ill-gotten gains to bankroll meals at Tao and the Russian Tea Room, the Brooklyn District Attorney announced Tuesday.

The contractor, Steven Crystal, allegedly demanded cash from the victims to cover the cost of phony environmental reviews and construction permits and used forged requests from government agencies to drive home the ruse, according to the 55-count indictment against him.

After getting his hands on the couple’s money, Crystal would sup at some of the city’s fanciest restaurants and indulge in shopping sprees at Burberry, Coach and Oscar de la Renta.

“This defendant allegedly engaged in a lengthy and brazen scheme that took advantage of homeowners who put their trust in him," Brooklyn DA Eric Gonzalez said. "We will continue to investigate fraud and corruption in the construction industry and to seek justice for those who are victimized by unscrupulous or dishonest contractors.”

Read more: https://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/brooklyn/ny-metro-steven-crystal-brooklyn-da-eric-gonzalez-20190813-cz6yhybmsfb6le56k2eehrbu3y-story.html