Contractors preyed on Sandy victims

Woodmere-based ASAP Restoration Inc. Owner Avraham Kardi was one of 61 contractors who were arrested following nine sting operations conducted by the Nassau County Police Department and Nassau County Office of Consumer Affairs after receiving more than 100 complaints from Hurricane Sandy Victims.

Contractors with unresolved consumer complaints and violations were asked to perform work on the sting houses and were arrested after they claimed they were licensed. The sting operations were conducted throughout Franklin Square and Valley Stream, and resulted in 61 arrests, the seizure of more than 50 vehicles and $150,000 in fines.

“Nassau County will not tolerate those who attempt to scam our residents and prey on Hurricane Sandy victims,” Mangano said in a statement. “If you are performing contract work in Nassau County without a proper license or trying to cheat our homeowners, we’ll find you, arrest you and ask the District Attorney to throw the book at you.”

Companies included Global Environmental Restoration of Valley Stream, Prado Home Improvements of Baldwin, Merrick-based Best Yet Maintenance Services and Poorman Tree Service, Top Hat Chimney Cleaning & Masonry in Franklin Square, Mazzarese Construction in Elmont and Bellmore’s Level Flooring.

The 61 contractors who were arrested are being charged with operating without a Nassau County Home Improvement License and face a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 or one year in jail.