A West Bloomfield man is facing charges, accused of sending false billing statements to the Detroit Land Bank for services related to the demolition of homes in the city.
The Attorney General's officer has charged ADR Consulting, LLC President Barry Ellentuck with one count of attempt false pretenses with intent to defraud, $1,000-$20,000. A warrant has been issued for his arrest, but he is being allowed to turn himself in.
The 53-year-old Ellentuck is charged with providing false billing statements for asbestos inspections, asbestos abatement letters and other services for demolitions of abandoned homes in Detroit.
The Michigan Land Bank and ADR Consulting have an agreement where ADR is paid $55 an hour for demolition services. ADR was then assigned to do demolition in Detroit, under an agreement between the Michigan Land Bank and the Detroit Land Bank.
An investigation into the matter began when the Michigan Land Bank and the Detroit Land Bank noticed inconsistencies in the work completed versus the hours ADR billed.
The bills were returned to Ellentuck for explanation. Officials say Ellentuck then pressured an employee to falsify documents to back up the over billing of more than 100 extra hours.
Ellentuck faces two-and-a-half years in prison if convicted.
ADR released the following statement, when contacted by 7 Action News for comment:
ADR Consultants, LLC has just learned of the press release issued by the Attorney General’s office and is reviewing the same. Preliminarily, ADR and its managing member, Barry Ellentuck, categorically deny the allegations as untrue and intend to vigorously defend themselves. We are confident that this politically motivated attack on ADR and Mr. Ellentuck will be resolved in their favor.
