Cops busted a Bronx woman for allegedly posing as the aunt of a Sandy Hook Elementary School victim and scamming donations.
Noel Alba was arrested this morning by Bronx detectives and US Secret Service agents She arrived in Bronx Supreme Court, handcuffed and wearing a grey hoodie under a jean jacket, grey sweats, sneakers and a blue cap.
“It speaks to her lack of character,” Bronx ADA Barry Goldbrenner said of the allegations. “She capitalized on the sympathies of people.”
Alba could be released later today on $10,000 bond or $1,000 cash. Her brother was expected to post it this afternoon.
She’s been charged with first-degree scheme to defraud and second-degree identity theft.
Alba is also facing federal charges in Connecticut on the same case, for allegedly lying to federal investigators.
The single mother, posing as Pozner’s aunt, posted numerous messages on Facebook asking for donations to the fraudulent charity.
“She even claimed she identified the body and took part in funeral arrangements,” Goldbrenner said.
Family Court records show Alba is under ACS supervision regarding her two sons, a 17-year-old who was skipping school and a 13-year-old who is in court-ordered therapy.
In arguing for lower bail, defense lawyer Justine Olderman said Alba was not a flight risk and has not hindered the law enforcement probe.
“She was aware of the investigation,” Olderman said. “She knew she was investigated and she didn’t go anywhere.”
Alba is due back in court on Aug. 8. She faces a maximum of four years behind bars and a $5,000 fine.
Lone gunman Adam Lanza, 20, fatally shot 20 children and six educators at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., on Dec. 14, 2012.
Alba’s cruel scam netted $240 between Dec. 14 and Dec. 20 from four donors, who got their money back, officials said.
Even though the amount was small, Bronx DA Robert Johnson said Alba’s alleged crimes were nonetheless despicable.
“The significance of her actions are great. I’d characterize it as one of the lowest things that can be done in civilization,” he said.