Brooklyn Business Owners and Woman Indicted for Selling Fake Safety Cards to Construction Workers

Construction sites are one of the most dangerous places to work, and the risks are amplified when workers do not receive proper training on safety protocols. Unfortunately, three individuals in Brooklyn have been indicted for allegedly forging and selling fake safety cards to construction workers who never received the required training. As NYC construction accident attorneys, we know that this kind of fraud is not only illegal, but it also puts workers’ lives at risk.

Among the 3 people arrested, one was authorized by OSHA to train construction workers but would sell cards without providing training

Latecia Moore, Alex Kaushanskiy, and Benedetto Bonello are accused of creating and distributing fake safety cards to construction workers, indicating that they had completed the required safety courses approved by OSHA or Site Safety Training certification. Moore allegedly made and sold fake cards to customers for $200 to $650 each, while Kaushanskiy’s company, Odessa Safety, sold phony cards without providing the training. Bonello, who is authorized by OSHA to train workers, allegedly sold fraudulent cards without providing the required training.

The investigation began when the New York City Housing Authority reported to the city’s Department of Investigation that it had identified construction safety cards with noticeable discrepancies during a routine check. The DOI executed a search warrant at Moore’s workplace, where they discovered computers, a card printer, and counterfeit cards. Additionally, the agency made an undercover purchase of a fraudulent OSHA-30 card from Bonello’s company, National Site Safety.

Moore faces 10 counts of second-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument, two counts of second-degree forgery, and four counts of first-degree falsifying business records. Kaushanskiy and Odessa Safety face three counts of second-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument and three counts of first-degree falsifying business records. Bonello and National Site Safety face two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument.

It is unacceptable that anyone would profit from putting workers’ lives in danger by selling fake safety cards

The construction industry is already fraught with risks, and proper training is essential to ensuring workers’ safety. The consequences of a construction accident can be devastating, causing serious injuries or even death. As a result, anyone who offers dangerous shortcuts or attempts to bypass safety requirements must face serious repercussions.

This indictment should send a strong message to anyone who thinks they can evade regulations and put people’s lives at risk. It is crucial that construction companies and workers follow all safety regulations to protect themselves and others. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, contact an experienced construction accident attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and options.