CORTLAND, N.Y. (WHCU) – A Cortland man is facing felony charges after using a fake ID at a bank.
Cortland Police say Alexander Bernstein unsuccessfully tried to withdraw a large amount of cash from an account that was not his on Wednesday at the Key Bank on Main Street in Cortland. An alert teller phoned the authorities and Bernstein fled. Key Bank sent an email to other branches warning them about the scam.
Bernstein allegedly tried the same thing a short time later just a few miles away at the Homer branch and was promptly arrested. Authorities say Bernstein had a driver with him who fled the area and has not been located. The 40-year-old is charged with attempted grand larceny, identity theft, and possessing a forged instrument. He is additionally charged with misdemeanor conspiracy.
Bernstein is being held in Cortland County Jail without bail. Cortland PD says Bernstein will also face charges in Homer. Bernstein is set to appear in Cortland City Court on December 20.
