Police say the arrest stems from a fire Oct. 31st on Hamilton Place in Garden City.
According to detectives, 54-year old Christopher Charles of Merrick, impersonating a fire marshal, went to a 7th Street apartment in Garden City attempting to sign a public adjuster's contract with the victim.
The victim discovered the man was not a marshal and contacted police.
The next day, police say Charles called Garden City Police and requested assistance in stopping a vehicle in front of the home where the fire occurred.
He allegedly identified himself as a Hempstead Police Officer and gave information which was dispatched to Patrol Officers, who were unable to locate the vehicle.
This was done in an attempt to prevent a competitor from being hired by the victims, police say. Charles is the owner of a fire restoration business.
He surrendered to Arson Bomb detectives in Williston Park Friday and is charged with Criminal Impersonation 2nd degree.
