On June 24, 2025, the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) at Catskill announced the arrest of Michael J. Parks, 44, of Cairo, NY, on charges of Grand Larceny in the Third Degree—a Class D felony under New York law. The case emerged following an investigation that began in April 2025 after Parks, doing business as Parks Electric, was contracted to perform electrical work for the installation of new gas pumps at a Windham gas station.
Parks received an upfront payment of approximately$4,500 for the job. However, he failed to appear at the work site or commence the contracted work, leaving the gas station owner in a difficult position. After enduring nearly five months of inactivity, the victim sought a refund. In response, Parks issued a check which was later returned due to insufficient funds—leaving the business owner without reimbursement and prompting law enforcement action.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Following the discovery of the fraudulent transaction, law enforcement officials processed Parks at the New York State Police barracks in Catskill. He was formally charged with Grand Larceny in the Third Degree in a case that carries potential penalties of up to seven years in prison, along with fines and a permanent criminal record. At his arraignment in the Town of Cairo Court, Parks was released on his own recognizance. His next court appearance is scheduled for July 9, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. in the Town of Windham Court, where further legal proceedings will determine the course of the case.
In New York, Grand Larceny in the Third Degree is defined by Penal Law § 155.35 as the theft of property valued at over$3,000. This crime not only carries significant potential penalties, such as imprisonment and fines, but also leaves lasting consequences including restitution obligations, negative marks on one’s criminal record, and broader collateral impacts on employment and professional licensing.
Legal Context and Implications
The statute under which Parks is charged addresses fraudulent schemes that involve misappropriation of funds or property. Courts have consistently held that if a defendant’s actions indicate an intent to permanently deprive the victim of their property, a conviction is more likely. In similar cases reviewed by New York courts, mitigating factors—such as lack of prior criminal history or efforts at restitution—can sometimes influence sentencing outcomes. Nevertheless, given the financial nature of the offense and the subsequent handling of funds, Parks faces serious legal jeopardy.
Business Background and Consumer Concerns
Parks Electric, established in Cairo in 2011, traditionally handled residential electrical work and received favorable reviews for service quality. However, recent findings indicate that the company’s credentials have become a subject of concern. The electrician license held by Michael Parks in Greene County expired in 2019, and the business lacks accreditation from the Better Business Bureau despite positive consumer reviews on platforms like Angi. These issues have raised red flags among local consumers and business regulators, emphasizing the need for due diligence when hiring contractors.
Local residents and business owners have voiced cautionary remarks following the incident. Community discussions have highlighted the importance of verifying contractor credentials and suggested that local authorities consider stricter oversight on service professionals. While the incident is isolated, it underscores a broader pattern of contractor fraud that could potentially affect other small businesses in the region.
Community and Victim Impact
The arrest has resonated deeply within the Windham and Cairo communities. The gas station owner, who had entrusted a significant sum for essential electrical work related to new gas pump installations, now finds themselves facing financial loss and operational disruption. Although no direct quotes from the victim have been published, the incident has sparked community conversations about the reliability of local contractors and the need for enhanced consumer protection measures.
Law enforcement officials have reinforced their commitment to cracking down on fraudulent business practices. The case serves as a cautionary example, urging local consumers to carefully vet service providers and to seek legal recourse if contractual obligations are not met.
What Lies Ahead
The forthcoming July 9, 2025, hearing in Windham will be a critical juncture for Michael J. Parks. At this proceeding, Parks will be expected to address the formal charges, potentially enter a plea, and engage in pre-trial discussions. Defense arguments may focus on mitigating circumstances, such as disputing the alleged intent or challenging the evidence of financial misappropriation. However, if the prosecution’s case is upheld, Parks could face a conviction, resulting in a sentence that may include imprisonment, substantial fines, and mandatory restitution to the aggrieved party.
The legal process will also provide an opportunity for discussions regarding bail adjustments, potential plea deals, and scheduling of subsequent trial dates should the case proceed to trial. Observers are closely watching the developments, as the outcome of this case could have broader implications for how contractor fraud cases are managed in New York.
