Fake Home Improvement License Fraud Arrest Made: Sheriff

NEW CITY, NY — A contractor who wasn't on the level went to great lengths to appear legitimate, according to law enforcement officials.

The Rockland County Sheriff's Office and the Rockland County Department of Consumer Protection said that 48-year-old Christian C. Kolarz, of Nyack, was arrested on April 18 for felony second-degree forgery and felony second-degree possession of a forged instrument.

Officials say the charges followed a coordinated investigation into a counterfeit Rockland County home improvement license that Kolarz allegedly created in order to try to fraudulently qualify for project financing.

"This successful joint effort between our Sheriff’s Office and Consumer Protection is exactly the kind of teamwork we need to keep Rockland safe," Rockland County Executive Ed Day said. "Not only have they protected potential victims, but they've also sent a clear message to anyone considering these kinds of scams— that you will be found and held accountable."

The forged license was discovered through the work of the Sheriff's Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the investigative support of Consumer Protection, which led to the arrest.

"This arrest is a clear example of how interagency collaboration can directly protect our residents from fraud and deception," Sheriff Louis Falco stated. "We remain committed to holding individuals accountable who seek to exploit our community."

Kolarz was arraigned in Clarkstown Justice Court and released on his own recognizance. He is due back in court on May 12.

"This case should serve as a warning," said Kimberly Von Ronn, Consumer Protection Director. "We take the misuse of official county documents and any attempts to defraud families and businesses extremely seriously."