Basking Ridge Man Allegedly Files False Application For Superstorm Sandy Relief Funds

A Basking Ridge man was among two homeowners charged Monday with filing fraudulent applications for federal relief funds in connection with Superstorm Sandy, Acting Attorney General John J. Hoffman announced. 

It was found that Scott Carlin, 48, allegedly filed a false claim stating his storm-damaged vacation home on Mary Alice Road in Manahawkin was his primary residence and as a result received $17,766 in FEMA rental assistance grants. 

According to the Attorney General’s Office, Carlin also allegedly filed a false application and was approved for a $10,000 grant under the HUD Homeowners Resettlement Program administered by the DCA.

However, those funds were not received due to the alleged fraud being discovered by the DCA.

“Those who lie to defraud these relief programs are stealing funds from the victims who were hit hardest by Sandy – those left homeless because their primary homes were destroyed or seriously damaged,” said Acting Attorney General Hoffman.  “We’ll continue to guard these limited funds by charging every cheat who attempts to divert funds from their rightful recipients.”

Carlin has been charged with third-degree attempted theft by deception, which could carry a sentence of three to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. He is also charged with fourth-degree unsworn falsification, which carries a sentence of up to 18 months in prison and a fine up to $10,000.