According to Insurance Fraud Prosecutor Greta Gooden Brown, Giovanni Muscia, also known as “Rocky,” 45, East 19th Street, Paterson, Passaic County, was charged with conspiracy and theft by deception (both 3rd degree). If convicted of both charges, Muscia faces up to 10 years in state prison and a criminal fine of up to $30,000. In addition, Muscia faces the possibility of the imposition of civil insurance fraud fines. Muscia will be ordered to appear in Passaic County Superior Court for a bail and arraignment hearing on a date yet to be set by the Court.

The Passaic County Grand Jury indictment alleges that between Aug. 1 and Sept. 27, 2000, Muscia, the former owner and operator of Rocky’s Auto Body, Bloomfield Avenue, Paterson, conspired to take possession of, dismantle, strip, and chop automobiles including a 1994 Mercedes Benz valued at more than $19,000. An investigation by the Division of Criminal Justice determined that Muscia was offered, and agreed to accepted, more than $500 to instruct people to dismantle the Mercedes, strip the Vehicle Identification Number from the vehicle, disassemble the car and moved the parts to another location.

State Investigator Jose Vendas, and Deputy Attorney General Nicole D. Rizzolo were assigned to the investigation of this case. DAG Rizzolo represented the Division of Criminal Justice - Office of Insurance Fraud Prosecutor before the Passaic County Grand Jury.

An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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