Man Accused of Falsifying Military Record and Embezzling from Veterans Group

A Long Island man faces serious allegations after reportedly deceiving others by posing as a highly decorated combat veteran. The individual, David Agtsteribbe, 58, is accused of taking $81,000 from a veterans’ group. Contrary to his claims, he had been discharged for bad conduct from the military, as announced by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office.

Agtsteribbe allegedly presented himself as a recipient of the Purple Heart, portraying himself as a wounded war hero. He faced arrest just two days before Veterans Day, bringing his alleged deceptions to light.

Details of Military Service and Misconduct

Prosecutors disclosed that Agtsteribbe was discharged in 1988 as a private after serving only about a year. He had been court-martialed for stealing money from another soldier in 1987. Following his discharge, he allegedly altered his military records to reflect an honorable service history. This forgery allegedly played a crucial role in helping him secure a position as a finance officer at a local veterans’ organization, from where he embezzled funds for personal use.

District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney expressed his disdain for the actions, stating that falsifying military records and claiming undeserved honors is particularly egregious. This betrayal of trust, by exploiting those who have genuinely served and sacrificed, underscores the severity of the allegations.

Details of the Alleged Fraud

Agtsteribbe joined the Hampton Bays American Legion in 2021, allegedly using falsified documents. These records also suggested a high retirement status, possibly granting him access to free healthcare and other benefits.

From 2022, he reportedly siphoned funds from the organization to cover personal expenses such as Amazon purchases, bills, and leisure activities, amounting to $81,798.31.

Furthermore, documents indicate he sought memberships in other veterans’ groups since 2019, including the Military Order of the Purple Heart. Additionally, in 2023 and 2024, he allegedly faked documents to avoid paying a resident fee and to obtain a handicap parking permit from the Town of Southampton.

Legal Proceedings and Charges

Agtsteribbe, who also allegedly claimed a nonexistent rank of lieutenant colonel, faces multiple legal charges. These include grand larceny in the second degree, criminal possession of a forged instrument, and falsifying business records.

If found guilty of the most significant charge, he could face 25 years to life as a persistent felony offender. Due to his record and the current accusations, prosecutors have asked for substantial bail: $100,000 in cash, a $200,000 secured bond, or a $1 million partially secured surety bond.

He is scheduled to reappear in court on November 13, 2026.