Long Island Man Accused of Stealing $81,000 From Veterans Group

Suffolk County prosecutors allege that David Agtsteribbe, 58, used false military documents to present himself as a decorated combat veteran and gain membership in the Hampton Bays American Legion. He was arrested on November 9, and the charges were announced the following day, on the eve of Veterans Day.

Prosecutors say Agtsteribbe claimed to have received two Purple Hearts, served in elite military operations and been held as a prisoner of war. They say he was instead dishonorably discharged from the Army after a court-martial conviction in 1988. During the period when he claimed to have been a POW, prosecutors said, he was serving a prison sentence in northern New York after a grand larceny conviction.

After joining the Legion, Agtsteribbe allegedly gained a finance role and took more than $81,000 from the organization. Prosecutors say the money went toward personal expenses, including online purchases, household bills, travel, clothing and entertainment. They also allege he submitted false military records over several years to obtain benefits, official documents and recognition from veterans’ organizations.

Agtsteribbe faces charges including second-degree grand larceny, possession of a forged instrument, filing a false instrument and falsifying business records. Prosecutors said he could face 25 years to life in prison if convicted. The Suffolk County district attorney said the allegations involved exploiting resources meant to support veterans.