Watervliet Police say they have arrested an accused scammer, who they say posed as a city employee and bilked thousands from an older victim.
Investigators say police received a complaint from a 75-year-old resident of Watervliet, who claimed the suspect, identified as Joseph N. Celenoe, claimed he worked for the City of Watervliet.
Police say Celeone told the victim that their driveway was in violation of Watervliet city code and would result in fines if not repaired.
The victim, according to police, handed over $3,000 for repairs that were not needed.
Celeone, 40, was charged with grand larceny and criminal impersonation. He was arraigned in Watervliet City Court and released on appearance ticket.
"This offender demonstrated a shamelessness that is often a routine characteristic of criminals that target vulnerable populations in our communities," said Watervliet Police Chief Joseph Centanni. "We commend the victim for notifying police which was pivotal in helping the department locate the defendant and prevent him from adding someone else to his list. The Watervliet Police Department will continue to relentlessly pursue the felons responsible for these morally evil acts and bring them to justice," concluded Centanni.
Police are looking to the possibility of more victims, any one with information is asked to call Watervliet police detectives at (518)270-3892.