90-Year-Old Stroke Survivor’s Classic Acura NSX at Center of Alleged Elder Financial Exploitation in New Jersey
NEWARK, NJ — A prominent elder advocacy organization has stepped into a Morris County courtroom to fight what it calls blatant financial exploitation of a 90-year-old stroke survivor whose prized classic car was allegedly stripped of valuable parts during an electric vehicle conversion.
Elder Help Network filed a Motion to Appear as Amicus Curiae in the Superior Court of New Jersey case Kerekes v. Polyak (Docket No. MRS L 000015-26) before Civil Presiding Judge Frank DeAngelis. The organization is urging stronger court action to protect Robert Kerekes, a well-known New Jersey car collector.
According to the filing, Kerekes contracted with Sam Polyak of Polykup to perform a premium Tesla battery EV conversion on his 2003 Acura NSX. Instead, the brief alleges, Polyak installed dangerous junkyard Chevrolet Bolt batteries that have been subject to massive national recalls due to fire risks.
After Superior Court Judge DeAngelis issued a Writ of Replevin on April 14, 2026, ordering the full return of the vehicle and all original components, the NSX was allegedly returned missing its engine, transmission, and other high-value parts worth approximately $200,000. An eyewitness from Vintage Motor Management reportedly stands ready to testify that an associate of the defendants confirmed possession of every part before the incomplete return.
David Gutwill of Ultimate Car Care in Fair Lawn is also linked to the custody and handling of the vehicle in the case.
Elder Help Network argues that the actions by Sam Polyak (Polykup) and David Gutwill (Ultimate Car Care), including shifting explanations and alleged non-compliance with court orders, constitute elder financial exploitation under New Jersey’s Adult Protective Services Act. The group is asking Judge Frank DeAngelis to:
- Immediately enforce the Writ of Replevin and order a full accounting/return of missing parts
- Issue subpoenas to Sam Polyak, David Gutwill, and defense counsel for testimony and documentation
- Refer the matter to the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office for potential criminal investigation into theft, conversion, and elder abuse
“Elder financial exploitation often hides in plain sight within business transactions,” the organization stated. “When the victim is elderly and medically vulnerable, the courts must act decisively.”
This case highlights growing national concerns about seniors being targeted in high-dollar auto repair, restoration, and EV conversion projects. Consumer advocates recommend that families of older adults always use detailed written contracts, verify parts sources, and consider having a trusted advocate present when dealing with significant vehicle modifications.
The court has not yet ruled on the amicus motion or the requested relief. The defendants have not issued a public statement on the allegations.
For the full press release:
