For Harlem Deed Theft in 2012 Makhani on Trial Hears Jackhammer Echoes from Skeptical Neighbor

For Harlem Deed Theft in 2012 Makhani on Trial Hears Jackhammer Echoes from Skeptical Neighbor by Matthew & Russell Lee, Patreon Substack 100 CENTRE ST, May 18 – Joseph Makhani, charged with deed theft on two Harlem brownstones dating back to 2012, was before NYS Justice Michele S. Rodney on October 16. Inner City Press was there.    Justice Rodney summoned the lawyers - including Makhani's lawyer Susan Necheles - up for what turned out to be an extremely long sidebar. Makhani, dressed in what appeared to be a leather jacket, remained at the defense table.     When it was over, Justice Rodney said there would be another off-calendar Teams meeting on October 20, to discuss if the trial for this 2012 crime can realistically be held in 2025, and how.    Makhani, a real estate developer, was not requested on the October 20 Teams session. But he would be back in court on October 24. And again - on trial - on May 18, 2026, when his lead defense counsel Susan Necheles was cross examining the building inspector about DHCR. Then the prosecution put on the stand Yolanda Chang, who interfaced with Makhani as he put the moves on the building next to hers on West 118th Street. He caused damage with a jackhammer - but will he be convicted of deed theft? Could be a job for Chi Osse... The trial continues.  Inner City Press is on the case(s) - watch this site *** Your support means a lot. As little as $5 a month helps keep us going and grants you access to exclusive bonus material on our Patreon page. Click here to become a patron. Feedback: Editorial [at] innercitypress.com Mail: Box 130222, Chinatown Station, NY NY 10013 Other, earlier Inner City Press are listed here, and some are available in the ProQuest service, and now on Lexis-Nexis.  Copyright 2006-2026 Inner City Press, Inc. To request reprint or other permission, e-contact Editorial [at] innercitypress.com