New York man charged with stealing identity of ex-NFL player

HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. (AP) A man has been charged with stealing the identity of a former NFL player who has the same name so he could rent a home on Long Island.

Prosecutors say Michael Rumph has pleaded not guilty to identity theft, criminal impersonation and possessing a forged instrument. He's free on $500 bail. His lawyer hasn't responded to a request for comment on the charges.

Mike Rumph played for the Washington Redskins and San Francisco 49ers.

Authorities say the defendant submitted a falsified letter purportedly from the victim's employer while renting a home in Baldwin, just east of New York City. They say police found two forged paystubs when he was arrested Sunday.

The former player coaches at the American Heritage High School in Plantation, Florida. He hasn't return a message seeking comment.