Dan Sandler, aka "Evil Elmo," admits to plot to extort Girl Scouts
(CBS/AP) NEW YORK - A homeless man who went on an anti-Semitic tirade in New York City's Times Square while dressed as Elmo is facing prison time after admitting to a plot to extort $2 million from the Girl Scouts.
Dan Sandler, 50, who also goes by the name Adam Sandler, pleaded guilty Wednesday to attempted grand larceny and misdemeanor stalking as part of a deal with prosecutors. He faces up to two years in prison at sentencing next month.
Sandler was accused of threatening to publicize false information about the Girl Scouts unless he got the money. Prosecutors say he sent harassing emails and photos to an employee of the nonprofit.
Sandler was arrested last year in Times Square while wearing the "Sesame Street" character costume and causing a scene that blocked traffic. He pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct. A defense attorney has said his rants weren't a real threat.
Sandler has a history of legal problems dating back before he was known as an Elmo impersonator. He was arrested in Cambodia in 1999 for running a live porn website called, "Welcome to the Rape Camp," CBS San Francisco has reported.
After being deported to the U.S., Sandler got a job doing administrative work with the Girl Scouts, according to published reports.
Complete coverage of Dan Sandler on Crimesider
