Ulster County Man Jailed for Stealing from Local Businesses and Friends

An Ulster County man will spend time in jail after admitting to stealing over $300,000 from local businesses and friends.

John Benkert, 52, from Hurley was sentenced to 60 days in Ulster County Jail plus 5 years’ probation and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $224,000 to be distributed between 6 victims within his first 2 years of probation.

He was also ordered to complete 150 more hours of community service.

According to the Ulster County District Attorney’s Office, Benkert admitted to stealing $324,000 from local businessmen and friends.

Benkert was arrested after a long-term investigation. He lured investors about the alleged development of a mall in Connecticut.

Benkert promised quick reimbursement with substantial interest to investors. Officials say he had no intention or ability of repaying the money.

Benkert also admitted he tried to scam the Ulster County Probation Department and court by lying about the hours of community service he performed. He was previously ordered to serve 480 hours of community service.

Benkert also failed to pay $149,000.00 of restitution which he had been ordered to pay before his April 26th sentencing.

“Plain and simply, John Benkert is a con man. We have no reasonable expectation that he will pay the restitution ordered by the court,” Ulster County District Attorney Holley Carnright said in a statement. “Hopefully, if that prediction becomes a reality Benkert will be resentenced to state prison.”