Massachusetts man accused of stealing $140,000 from 9/11 victim: DA

MINEOLA, Nassau County (PIX11) -- A Massachusetts man is facing charges for allegedly stealing over $140,000 from a 9/11 victim and her mother, according to Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly.

Richard Yasnis, 43, of Natwick, pleaded not guilty to grand larceny charges Thursday.

The victim developed medical issues while working at Ground Zero during the post-9/11 efforts in 2001, which qualified her for 9/11 Victim Compensation funds, officials said.

Between May and June 2023, Yasnis allegedly met with the victim, claiming to be a licensed investment broker for Cahill Financial Group, prosecutors said.

Yasnis allegedly advised her that he could invest her money in a real estate renovation opportunity that would result in a profit, officials said. She was also told that Yasnis would invest the rest of the funds in the stock market.

Between July 31 and September 2023, the victim allegedly provided Yasnis with over $136,000 in cash and jewelry worth around $5,000, prosecutors said. Part of the funds came from the victim's mother, who cashed a portion of her deceased husband's life insurance policy.

Yasnis failed to provide the victim and her mother with communication and cut communication, according to DA Donnelly.

Nassau County Police determined that Yasnis was not a licensed investment broker employed by Cahill Financial Group. He was arrested on December 20, 2023.

Yasnis is due back in court on September 18 and faces seven and a half to 15 years in prison if convicted.