Florida Couple Charged in Disturbing Property Theft Scheme

A couple in Florida has been arrested for allegedly executing a simple yet highly effective scam that involved stealing properties from unsuspecting homeowners. Victor Rodriguez, 50, and his 33-year-old wife, Michelle Cherry, reportedly forged quitclaim deeds to unlawfully take ownership of multiple homes in Tampa and Miami-Dade County.

How the Scam Worked

According to reports from WTVT-TV News, the couple managed to execute this scheme for less than $1. They utilized quitclaim deeds, a legal document that allows property ownership to be transferred with the consent of the owner. However, they forged signatures, enabling them to walk away with titles at minimal processing costs—sometimes only 70 cents.

Key Facts About Quitclaim Deeds

• Definition: A quitclaim deed transfers ownership of property without guaranteeing the title is clear.
• Vulnerabilities: The simplicity of the process, which only requires a notary and two signatures with an address, makes it easy for fraudsters to exploit.

Victims Speak Out

Caroline Sauer, Rodriguez’s ex-wife, expressed deep concern when she discovered that the titles of her father’s properties had been altered through these fraudulent quitclaim deeds. “We questioned, how did this happen?” said Sauer. Furthermore, she lamented, “Who forges a deceased person’s signature? Who does that?”

The couple’s alleged victims include Larry and Dreama Bilby, who were shocked to learn they had "signed" over their property while it was under construction. Dreama Bilby shared her outrage, stating, "I was so angry, I almost couldn’t talk."

Legal Implications

The prosecutor in Hillsborough County, Mike Lennon, highlighted a growing trend in property theft scams, stating, “To have someone steal your property is like stealing the American dream. It’s terrible.”

Both Rodriguez and Cherry were arrested in March and have pleaded not guilty to the fraud charges. Their attorneys assert that Rodriguez maintains his innocence, emphasizing the need for fair legal proceedings.

Rising Concern Over Forgery

The incident raises questions about the effectiveness of current laws regulating property transfers. With little in place to prevent such a straightforward form of theft, many are calling for tighter regulations. As noted by Hillsborough County Clerk Cindy Stuart, the process for executing a quitclaim deed remains alarmingly easy for criminals.

Possible Future Actions

• Stricter Regulations: There’s a potential push for more stringent identification requirements and documenting the consent of property owners.
• Increased Awareness: Property owners should be vigilant and regularly check the status of their ownership titles.

Conclusion

The alarming case of Victor Rodriguez and Michelle Cherry emphasizes the vulnerabilities within property transfer processes. It not only highlights the risks homeowners face but also suggests the need for improved legal safeguards to protect property rights.

For additional information on quitclaim deeds and property law, visit Nolo or consult a legal expert.