Paul Smith Man Charged following extensive larceny investigation

On January 21, 2026, New York State Police charged Andrew W. Cassata, age 27, of Paul Smiths, Franklin County, after a very extensive investigation regarding multiple larceny cases involving Cassata and his company, MC Construction and Development.

New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation started an investigation into Cassata’s business dealings in October of 2024.  During the course of the investigation from 2024-2026, State Police members interviewed multiple victims and executed search warrants on Cassata’s companies and residence.  Investigators were assisted by members of the New York State Police Financial Crimes Unit and Computer Crimes Unit.  After a thorough investigation, Cassata was found to have defrauded multiple customers.  Cassata was alleged to have overcharged clients and not completed the jobs he was hired for.

While executing a search warrant at Cassata’s residence, two non-compliant AR-15 style rifles were located, one of which was loaded.

On January 21, 2026, Andrew Cassata turned himself in at SP Ray Brook, where he was processed on multiple larceny cases.  Cassata was charged with four counts of Grand Larceny 3rd Degree: Property Value Exceeds $3000, Issuing a Bad Check, one count of Scheme To Defraud 1st: Obtain Property >$1000 From One Or More Persons, one count of Grand Larceny 2nd degree: Property Value Exceeds $50,000, Crim Possess Weapon-2:Loaded Firearm-Other Than Person's Home/business, Failure To Safely Store Firearms 1st Degree - In Home, two counts of Criminal Possession Of A Firearm - Possess A Firearm, and Criminal Possession Assault Weapon-3rd Degree.

Cassata was arraigned in the Town of Brighton Court, where he was released on his own recognizance.

If you believe you may have been a victim of a crime involving this company, please contact New York State Police – Ray Brook.