A New York businessman is facing felony forgery and other charges in an alleged Sandy scam.
Nassau County DA Kathleen Rice says Mark Rauch was arrested Tuesday. The Oceanside contractor is accused of doctoring a Town of Hempstead mailing that portrayed him as authorized to expedite building permits for Sandy repair work.
He indicated the fee for his services was $499. Hempstead officials had previously waived fees after the storm.
Prosecutors say it does not appear Rauch collected any fees from anyone.
He pleaded not guilty and was released without bail. Defense attorney Thomas Scanlon says his client will fight the charges. He said Rauch was trying to help Sandy victims with paperwork needed to start repairs.
Rauch faces up to seven years in prison if convicted.
