Deed Fraud Scheme Unveiled in Broward County
Two women in Florida are facing serious charges for their involvement in a deed fraud scheme that targeted a deceased couple’s properties in Broward County. The women are accused of filing false deeds to gain control of the homes and more than $1 million that belonged to the couple.
Accusations and Charges
The case involves Veronica Gordon, a caretaker who cared for one of the deceased individuals, and Anna Young, a notary who allegedly assisted in the fraudulent scheme. Gordon has been charged with multiple crimes, including theft and filing false documents, while Young is facing charges of fraud, organized fraud, and obtaining property by deception.
According to investigators, Gordon used her position as a certified nursing assistant to manipulate the situation and gain control of the properties. Young, the notary, is accused of notarizing fraudulent documents to facilitate the transfer of ownership.
The Victims and the Scheme
The deceased couple, Vivian Myrel and Walter Rivera-Alfonso, were targeted in this scheme. Myrel passed away in 2020, and Rivera-Alfonso was found dead in his home years later. The women allegedly took advantage of the situation to illegally transfer ownership of the properties.
Investigators uncovered the scheme when a postal worker noticed suspicious activity at the couple’s properties and alerted law enforcement. Subsequent investigations revealed the fraudulent deeds and documents that had been filed by Gordon and Young.
Consequences and Community Response
The fraudulent scheme has had significant consequences for the victims’ families and the local community. Property appraiser Marty Kiar expressed his sadness over the situation, calling it a betrayal of trust and a violation of the victims’ rights.
In response to the growing issue of deed fraud, Kiar’s office has increased efforts to combat such schemes. A dedicated team of detectives now works on investigating and preventing fraudulent activities related to property deeds in Broward County.
It is crucial for the community to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to property ownership to prevent further instances of fraud. By holding those responsible for deed fraud accountable, the community can safeguard the rights of property owners and prevent future fraudulent schemes.
