Crime & Safety
Fake Iron Workers Union Rep Scammed Victims Desperate For Work: NYSP
He told victims he could facilitate membership for a fee, New York State Police said, but once he was paid, he ended all communication.
HUDSON VALLEY, NY — A con man who preyed on those desperate for work has been taken down by authorities, according to the New York State Police.
The NYSP say that the State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) in Middletown arrested 57-year-old Armando J. Alarcon, of Middletown, after a monthslong investigation.
He was charged with felony fourth-degree grand larceny, and felony first-degree scheme to defraud.
Find out what's happening in Mid Hudson Valleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The arrest took place after state police received reports that Alarcon had posed as a representative of the Ironworkers Local 580 Union. He told victims that he could facilitate their membership into the union for a fee.
After receiving payment, Alarcon would provide victims with a projected start date, but would end all communication soon after.
Find out what's happening in Mid Hudson Valleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
On Friday, Alarcon was taken into custody. He was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Wallkill Court on April 16.
Police say that the investigation is ongoing. Anyone who believes they may have been defrauded by Alarcon or who may have additional information is being urged to contact the SP Middletown BCI at 845-344-5300.
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