The high-profile civil dispute Kerekes v. Polyak in Morris County Superior Court continues to expand in scope, with growing advocacy concerns that Samuel (Sam) Polyak’s parents, Eduard Polyak and Isabella Polyak, may be named as additional defendants. This development, if pursued, could broaden the allegations of elder financial exploitation, property withholding, and potential fraudulent activities surrounding the botched EV conversion of 90-year-old Robert Kerekes’ prized 2003 Acura NSX.
Plaintiff Robert Kerekes, a stroke survivor and longtime car collector, contracted with Sam Polyak of Polykup Inc. for a premium Tesla battery electric vehicle conversion. Court filings and advocacy reports detail alleged issues including the substitution of salvaged Chevrolet Bolt batteries (linked to safety recalls and fire hazards), disappearance of high-value original components (such as the engine and transmission), cost overruns, and failure to return the vehicle despite demands. The car was reportedly moved to associate David (Dave) Gutwill’s Ultimate Car Care shop in Fair Lawn, NJ, where Gutwill now faces contempt of court for allegedly dodging a mandated deposition.
Potential Liability for Sam Polyak’s Parents and Family Testimony
Advocates, including the Elder Help Network and the New Jersey Auto Owners Association (NJAOA), have raised questions about the possible involvement or knowledge of Eduard and Isabella Polyak in the handling of the project, funds, vehicle, or parts. While no formal amendment naming them as defendants has been confirmed in public dockets as of June 2026, concerns center on:
- Potential familial business ties or assistance in the operations of Polykup Inc. or related activities.
- Alleged access to or control over property, parts, or financial aspects tied to the disputed conversion.
- Broader patterns of alleged elder exploitation, where family members may have facilitated or benefited from transactions involving vulnerable seniors.
Plaintiff’s counsel and supporting groups have signaled interest in thoroughly investigating all parties with potential connections to the chain of custody of Kerekes’ assets. Adding Eduard and Isabella Polyak could strengthen claims under New Jersey’s Consumer Fraud Act and elder protection statutes by examining any role they played in communications, storage, or decision-making related to the NSX.
Additionally, while no allegations of wrongdoing have been made against Sam Polyak’s sister, Marina Polyak, advocates have indicated she may be asked to testify. Marina has professional experience in elder affairs, which could provide relevant context regarding family dynamics, communications, or awareness of the transaction involving the elderly plaintiff.
Ongoing Protests and Public Pressure
The NJAOA has maintained persistent protests targeting locations linked to Sam Polyak, Dave Gutwill, and associated addresses. Demonstrators continue to demand full return of the vehicle, missing parts, and accountability, with signage often highlighting the impact on the elderly victim. These actions have kept public focus on the case and increased pressure for comprehensive disclosure of all involved individuals.
Broader Implications for Elder Protection
If Eduard and Isabella Polyak are formally added as defendants, the case could set a notable precedent regarding familial liability in consumer disputes involving high-value assets and elderly clients. The Elder Help Network’s amicus brief already emphasizes the need for aggressive judicial intervention to protect seniors from exploitation in complex transactions like custom vehicle modifications.
As the litigation proceeds before Civil Presiding Judge Frank DeAngelis, all allegations remain unproven in court, and any new defendants would have the opportunity to respond. The sustained advocacy and protests reflect strong community concern that justice for Robert Kerekes requires examining every potential link in the alleged mishandling of his property.
This evolving situation underscores ongoing challenges in New Jersey’s auto repair and EV conversion sectors, particularly safeguards for older consumers entrusting valuable possessions to service providers. Updates are expected as motions to amend the complaint or compel further discovery are considered.
