By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities in Monmouth County are investigating a financial scheme involving a Long Branch resident accused of defrauding a local bank of more than $44,000, according to information released by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office. 
Jacob Gindi, 33, has been formally charged with third-degree Bad Checks and third-degree Theft by Deception following a probe led by the Financial Crimes and Special Prosecutions Unit of the prosecutor’s office.
The investigation began after the Deal Police Department flagged suspicious financial activity at a bank branch in the borough in December 2024.
Authorities determined that several months prior, Gindi had deposited a check for $44,500, which was later found to have insufficient funds.
Before the check had cleared, Gindi allegedly withdrew the funds through a rapid sequence of bank transfers, debit card purchases, and the acquisition of a bank check, effectively depleting the account before the fraudulent deposit could be identified.
On Tuesday, Gindi surrendered to law enforcement and was released on a summons pending upcoming legal proceedings in Monmouth County Superior Court. 
Further updates on the case are expected as the legal process unfolds.