New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez and the United States Postal Inspection Service today announced the arrest of Gennady Galker for allegedly stealing checks from Brooklynites and using a stolen identity to further his scheme. Galker is accused of thefts totaling $31,149, including a $1,148 check from DiNapoli’s Office of Unclaimed Funds, and various checks from the Jewish Communal Fund intended for area charities.
“Stealing from one’s community is deplorable, but it is particularly heinous that this defendant allegedly stole from charitable organizations and people in need,” DiNapoli said. “I’m grateful for my office’s partnership with District Attorney Gonzalez and the United States Postal Inspection Service, and for the work of my Division of Investigations to hold Mr. Galker accountable for his actions.”
Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said: “Stealing funds intended to help the needy and vulnerable is especially despicable, and we are committed to seeking accountability for this defendant’s alleged crime. I am grateful to Comptroller’s DiNapoli’s Office and the United States Postal Inspection Service for their partnership and outstanding work on this case.”
Postal Inspector in Charge of the New York Division Daniel B. Brubaker said: “I would like to thank the New York State Comptroller’s Office and the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office for their outstanding work. Mr. Galker is accused of stealing checks destined for charitable organizations, this alleged crime not only robs the needy, but it also steals the joy from those who gave from their hearts to help others. We have a proud and long-standing history of protecting the mail and the American public from criminals. Today’s arrest of Mr. Galker should serve as a clear warning to mail thieves: Postal Inspectors and our law enforcement partners will be there to ensure that criminals are held responsible for their actions.”
Galker, 40, a resident of Midwood, withdrew cash immediately after depositing the stolen checks. He allegedly spent the money on purchases from Amazon and Door Dash among other personal expenses.
He was charged with grand larceny, criminal possession of a forged instrument and identity theft in the first degree.
He was arraigned in Kings County Criminal Court before Judge Danny Chun, Kings County Supreme Court, Criminal Term and is due back in court on February 23, 2023.
The charges filed in this case are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Since taking office in 2007, DiNapoli has committed to fighting public corruption and encourages the public to help fight fraud and abuse. New Yorkers can report allegations of fraud involving taxpayer money by calling the toll-free Fraud Hotline at 1-888-672-4555, by filing a complaint online at https://www.osc.state.ny.us/investigations, or by mailing a complaint to: Office of the State Comptroller, Division of Investigations, 8th Floor, 110 State St., Albany, NY 12236.