Rockland County Podiatrist, Girlfriend Accused In Murder-For-Hire Plot

RAMAPO, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- A Rockland County podiatrist and his girlfriend are accused of allegedly plotting to kill the doctor's wife, police announced Tuesday.

Dr. Ira Bernstein, 41, and Kelly Myzner Grideluk, 36, approached a man who they thought they could hire as a hitman, police said.

"The murder was to appear accidental," Ramapo Detective Lt. Mark Emma said, adding that it was "for financial gain, because of a possible pending divorce."

But the hired man, described by Emma as an "exceptional citizen," went to the police who set up wiretaps, WCBS 880's Alex Silverman reported.

CBS2's Steve Langford reported police were removing evidence from the doctor's office in Suffern the day after the arrests.

Bernstein and Grideluk are also accused of plotting to beat up two UnitedHealthcare insurance agents who were investigating the doctor's podiatry practice.

Police said the two health insurance company investigators agreed to be made up to look as if they had been beaten, in order to make the suspects believe they were dealing with someone who could carry out the alleged plots.

"In addition, they conspired to have two individuals assaulted who were investigating the actions of Dr. Bernstein with regards to his practice for an insurance company," Ramapo Police Chief Brad Weidel said.

Bernstein and Grideluk are charged with several counts of conspiracy and solicitation.

"There was money exchanged -- I won't reveal how much -- for both conspiracies," Emma said.

Police said Bernstein's wife, Susan, is aware of what's happening.

"She's aware of all the circumstances surrounding this matter," Weidel said. "The court has issued stay away orders of protection."

They are being held on $600,000 bail each.