Yonkers Man Admits Guilt in Insurance Fraud Scheme

Haddad hired someone to burn down his home to collect over $1 million in insurance money

Mar. 24, 2026 at 10:20am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A Yonkers man named Majid Haddad has pleaded guilty to conspiracy, arson, and insurance fraud charges after admitting to hiring someone to burn down his home on Odell Avenue in 2021 in order to collect over $1 million in insurance payouts.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious consequences of insurance fraud, which can put innocent lives at risk through arson and lead to significant financial losses for insurance companies and higher premiums for consumers. It also demonstrates the importance of thorough investigations by law enforcement to uncover these types of elaborate schemes.

The details

Prosecutors say Haddad hired a man to purchase gasoline and showed him how to light the fire using a cigarette and matches. The home on Odell Avenue was then set ablaze in 2021, leading to Haddad's arrest and guilty plea.

  • Haddad's home was set on fire in 2021.
  • Haddad pleaded guilty to the charges in March 2026.

The players

Majid Haddad

A Yonkers resident who admitted to hiring someone to burn down his home in order to collect over $1 million in insurance money.

Westchester District Attorney's Office

The prosecutors who brought the charges against Haddad and secured his guilty plea.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This case highlights the serious consequences of insurance fraud, which can put innocent lives at risk through arson and lead to significant financial losses for insurance companies and higher premiums for consumers.”

— Westchester District Attorney's Office

What’s next

Haddad faces six months in jail and five years' probation for his crimes.

The takeaway

This case serves as a warning that insurance fraud, especially through the use of arson, will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law in order to protect innocent lives and maintain the integrity of the insurance system.