Cops collared a fake priest in Queens who turned out to be an alleged international scam artist who preyed on houses of worship in the borough and around the country.
According to police sources, 45-year-old Malin Rostas of Romania arrived at American Martyrs Roman Catholic Church, located at 79-43 Bell Blvd. in Bayside on March 3, claiming to be a visiting priest. A 63-year-old man bought the story and let the faux father inside, where he allegedly stole $900 from a back bedroom before fleeing.
At first, police investigated the incident as a simple burglary — but detectives quickly realized they were dealing with a truly sinister minister.
Investigators quickly discovered linked the crime to Rostas, who not only allegedly posed as a priest in New York City but also in upstate and other states across the country such as Texas, Idaho, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Georgia — all with a similar modus operandi.
Police sources said Rostas is also wanted in England by the Northumberland police for a similar scheme.
In another incident in Fairfield, PA, law enforcement sources said, Rostas allegedly made off with a whooping $15,500 from a dresser inside of the rectory of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Jesus Mary and Joseph Church.
After images of Rostas were released, sources familiar with the investigation reported, the impersonator saw himself on television and tried to flee New York to California. Cops in the Golden State recognized Montas and arrested the alleged con artist. He was extradited back to the Big Apple on July 18 to face charges of burglary and petit larceny.
Rostas attempted to shield his face from press cameras, hunching over as detectives took him out of the 111th Precinct in cuffs on Thursday evening. He refused to answer for his alleged crimes.
Read more: Senior Citizen Targeted in Unprovoked West Village Attack
