In an unusual real estate dispute on Long Island, a couple has reportedly evaded mortgage payments for an astonishing 14 years, waged a legal battle to forestall foreclosure proceedings for over a decade, and continued to occupy a residence after its sale, according to court documents. Adding to the tension, the occupants were accused of making racially charged comments to the new legal owners.
The new owners, the Chawla family, assert they have expended more than $85,000 on taxes, mortgage installments, and various expenses to maintain the property in Jericho, which they purchased for $762,200 in February 2022. The intention was for Bobby Chawla and his family to provide the home to his pregnant sister, Gege, and her spouse.
The occupants, Barry J. Pollack, 72, and Barbara Pollack, initially agreed to vacate the premises within a month but failed to meet the agreed departure date of March 31, 2022. Consequently, the Chawlas sought legal action in Nassau County Housing Court to remove the Pollacks.
Court filings paint a picture of a strategically drawn-out legal strategy by the Pollacks, characterized as “calculated” and “devious,” that has purportedly exploited the judicial system for 15 years.
Historical records show that the Pollacks acquired the four-bedroom residence on Friendly Lane in September 1990 for $255,000. Despite settling one mortgage, the couple encountered financial difficulties that led to a series of legal defenses to retain their home. This included a foreclosure lawsuit in 2006 for defaulting on a second mortgage of $310,000 and subsequent foreclosure in 2008 that dragged on for 11 years due to multiple requests for delays.
Moreover, the Pollacks filed for bankruptcy seven times since 2012, which the Chawlas criticize as baseless filings aimed at manipulating bankruptcy protections. The most recent bankruptcy filing occurred just as the Nassau Sheriff and movers were preparing to vacate the property.
Barry Pollack maintains that he is actively seeking alternate housing and disputes the claim of legal system abuse, while also alleging harassment by the Chawlas, though without presenting evidence. In court documents, Pollack has cited health concerns and the difficulty of relocating at his age as reasons for the delay in moving.
The Chawlas refute the allegations of harassment, expressing their eagerness to resolve the matter. Gege Chawla, in particular, voices her frustrations over the situation, highlighting the impact on her family and her hopes to soon provide a suitable home for her expected child.
The case continues to be a contentious issue, with the Chawla family adhering to legal procedures in hopes of reclaiming their property.