A Yonkers man, posing as a home repair specialist, was arrested for grand larceny after defrauding a Levittown homeowner of over $70,000.
On March 20, 2024, a Levittown resident, seeking to fix cracks in his home’s foundation, turned to Google to find a contractor. The search led him to Empire Foundation and Masonry, based at 140 Broadway, New York. The homeowner arranged an appointment with a supposed representative named Maichel Woods, a false identity used by Martin Ward, 27, of Yonkers.
Ward, using the alias, convinced the homeowner of his expertise and collected a total of $70,200 for the promised repairs. However, after receiving the payment, Ward performed no work and became elusive. Repeated attempts by the homeowner to contact him were futile, except for one instance where Ward demanded an additional $36,000, which the homeowner wisely refused to pay.
Detectives from the Eighth Squad initiated an investigation following the homeowner’s complaint. Their efforts culminated in the arrest of Martin Ward on May 14, 2024. Ward has been charged with Grand Larceny in the second degree.
Ward was arraigned on May 15, 2024, at First District Court, Hempstead. Authorities are urging anyone who believes they may have been victimized by Ward to contact their local precinct or call 911. All reports will be treated confidentially.
A criminal charge is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Photo: NCPD.
