An elder rights organisation has stepped into an ongoing Morris County legal dispute, asking the court to strengthen protections for an elderly claimant it says has been financially exploited in a contested automotive restoration and conversion project.
Elder Help Network has filed a motion to appear as amicus curiae in Kerekes v. Polyak (Docket No. MRS L 000015-26), currently being heard in the Morris County Superior Court. The filing supports claims brought by Robert Kerekes, a 90-year-old stroke survivor and noted classic car enthusiast, and urges the court to recognise what it describes as serious vulnerabilities affecting the plaintiff.
Allegations tied to EV conversion work
At the centre of the dispute is a customised electric vehicle conversion involving Kerekes’ 2003 Acura NSX. According to the amicus submission, contractor Samuel Polyak is accused of departing from the agreed build specifications by installing used Chevrolet Bolt battery packs instead of the Tesla battery system allegedly contracted for.
The filing argues that the substitute components have been associated with safety concerns, including prior recalls and fire-risk settlements, and claims this created potential hazards for the vehicle owner and those around him.
David Gutwill is also referenced in connection with the broader allegations raised in the case materials.
Disputed return of vehicle and missing components
Court documentation cited in the filing indicates that a Writ of Replevin was issued on 14 April 2026, directing that the vehicle and all related parts be returned. However, the advocacy group contends that when the Acura NSX was ultimately returned, it was stripped of key mechanical components, including its engine, transmission, and additional parts collectively estimated at roughly $200,000.
The brief points to testimony from Matt Pekham of Vintage Motor Management, who is expected to state that a representative associated with the defendants previously confirmed possession of all missing components before the vehicle was handed back.
The filing further alleges inconsistencies in the defendants’ explanations, noting that accounts have shifted between claims that the parts were never received and assertions that they were later discarded.
Claims of elder vulnerability and procedural issues
Elder Help Network argues that the circumstances go beyond a commercial disagreement and may meet the threshold for elder financial exploitation under New Jersey’s Adult Protective Services laws.
The organisation emphasises Kerekes’ age and health condition following a stroke, stating that these factors increase susceptibility in complex legal and financial transactions. It also raises concerns about alleged procedural delays, including a rejected bankruptcy filing and failure to comply with court directives, which it says have prolonged the dispute.
Requests submitted to the court
In its motion addressed to Civil Presiding Judge Frank J. DeAngelis, the group is asking for immediate enforcement of the existing Writ of Replevin. It also seeks subpoenas requiring testimony and records from Samuel Polyak, David Gutwill, and defence counsel Mr. Yuniver.
In addition, the organisation is requesting that the matter be referred to the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office for review of potential criminal issues, including theft, conversion, and alleged exploitation of an elderly individual.
Statement from the advocacy group
The filing notes that the group’s participation is intended to assist the court by providing specialist insight into elder protection concerns, without disadvantaging any party involved in the proceedings. It states the organisation is prepared to support the court in ensuring fairness, compliance with orders, and appropriate safeguarding of vulnerable individuals.
The court has yet to rule on whether Elder Help Network will be permitted to participate as amicus curiae or on any of the relief requested in the submission.
