Schenectady Man Arrested for Stealing Thousands with Forged Checks—Here’s How He Got Caught!

Schenectady Man Arrested on Multiple Warrants for Forged Checks and Grand Larceny

Jason A. Cruz, a 43-year-old Schenectady resident, was arrested on February 24, 2025, on multiple warrants related to fraudulent activities and grand larceny charges. The arrest stems from a series of forged check incidents that spanned several locations in New York State.

The Fraudulent Scheme

The investigation began with a complaint from an Erie County resident on August 8, 2022, reporting suspicious activity involving their bank account. It was determined that Cruz allegedly attempted to cash a forged check at a financial institution in Halfmoon, NY, on the same day. Later that day, Cruz also reportedly cashed another forged check at a Troy, NY bank, resulting in a theft of over $1,000.

An additional fraudulent activity complaint was filed on August 23, 2022, by a Greene County resident. Investigators uncovered that Cruz had cashed two fraudulent checks on August 5, 2022, at financial institutions in Mechanicville and Clifton Park, NY, stealing more than $7,000.

The Arrest

After a lengthy investigation, multiple arrest warrants were issued for Cruz. He was taken into custody with the assistance of the Schenectady Police Department. Cruz was processed at SP Clifton Park and SP Brunswick before being arraigned in Clifton Park Town Court and Troy City Court. Despite the serious charges, Cruz was released on his own recognizance from both courts.

Cruz now faces four counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument, three counts of Grand Larceny in the 4th degree, and Attempted Grand Larceny in the 4th degree.

This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by State Police and local law enforcement to combat financial crimes and protect victims from fraud. Stay tuned for further updates on this case as it unfolds.