DA says Huntington man misled homeowner with fake Town of Islip document.
Suffolk County, NY – A Huntington contractor and his construction company have been indicted on felony charges after prosecutors say he presented a forged building permit to a homeowner during a residential project in Great River. The case centers on allegations that required permits were never obtained despite assurances to the client.
District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced that Robert Cortese, 39, and his business, Tool Time Construction, Inc., were arraigned Tuesday on one count of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument in the Second Degree. The charge stems from a 2021 incident in which Cortese allegedly provided a falsified Town of Islip permit.
“Homeowners give their trust and significant sums of money to contractors they hire. When that trust is betrayed with forged documents and unlicensed work, we office will pursue every avenue to hold those responsible accountable,” said Tierney. “My office will continue to pursue charges against those who seek to defraud Suffolk County residents of their hard-earned money.”
Alleged forged permit uncovered by homeowner
Key Points
- Huntington contractor indicted for allegedly using forged building permit
- Homeowner discovered permit was fake after contacting Town of Islip
- Defendant faces felony charge and potential prison sentence if convicted
According to court documents, Cortese entered into a contract in May 2021 to build a pool and pool house at a Great River home, allegedly promising to secure all necessary permits. After repeated requests, he later provided what he claimed was a valid permit in October 2021.
The homeowner contacted the Town of Islip Building Department and learned the document was allegedly fraudulent. Investigators further allege Cortese never applied for the required permits and did not hold a valid Suffolk County home improvement contractor license.
Court proceedings and additional charges
Cortese and his company were arraigned before Supreme Court Justice Timothy P. Mazzei, who ordered their release under New York’s bail laws, which classify the charge as non-bail eligible. If convicted, Cortese faces a potential sentence of 2 ⅓ to 7 years in prison.
He is scheduled to return to court on May 5. Cortese is represented by attorney Marc Gann.
In a separate case, Cortese is also charged with operating as a home improvement contractor without a license, an unclassified misdemeanor. He is due back in First District Court on that matter on April 17 and is represented by Gann and Gerard McCloskey.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Elizabeth Miller of the Financial Crimes Bureau, with the investigation led by Deputy Sheriff Investigator Brandon Clark, alongside the Suffolk County Department of Consumer Affairs.
Officials are urging anyone who believes they may have been affected by Cortese or his business to contact the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office.
