Property Fraud Investigation: Tampa Couple Faces Multiple Charges
TAMPA – A troubling case of property fraud is unfolding as Victor Rodriguez, 50, faces serious allegations in Tampa and similar charges in Miami-Dade County. Rodriguez, along with his wife, Michelle Cherry, 33, was arrested during a routine traffic stop in March due to their involvement in deceptive property transactions.
Unraveling the Fraud
In February, Rodriguez and Cherry filed a quitclaim deed at the Hillsborough County Clerk’s office, allegedly transferring ownership of a property belonging to Larry and Dreama Bilby. The Bilbys vehemently assert that they never authorized anyone to sign their names.
- Dreama Bilby expressed her shock, stating, “I was so angry, I almost couldn’t talk.”
This incident has spurred others who believe they may also be victims of Rodriguez’s fraudulent activities, including Carolina Sauer, an ex-wife of Rodriguez from Miami.
A Personal Connection
Sauer described a heart-wrenching discovery that followed her father’s death last year: all titles to his properties had been altered through quitclaim deeds without her family’s consent.
- Sauer questioned the integrity of the actions, saying, “Who forges a deceased person’s signature? Who does that?”
Miami-Dade County court documents indicate numerous fraudulent deeds were identified, allegedly featuring Rodriguez’s forged signature of Sauer’s deceased father.
Legal Insights and Concerns
The ease of forging quitclaim deeds raises alarms, as noted by Hillsborough County Clerk of Court and Comptroller Cindy Stuart. With just a notary and two signatures required, fraudulent filings can go undetected, making a strong case for enhanced property fraud legislation.
Identifying Red Flags
Clerk Stuart emphasized the importance of vigilance against potential fraud:
- Misspelled names
- Nonexistent addresses
- Incorrect city names
These cautionary signs can help in identifying fraud before it occurs.
Ongoing Legal Battles
Sauer’s family is currently embroiled in a legal struggle against Rodriguez, hiring handwriting experts and incurring significant legal fees in their quest for justice.
- Sauer commented on the emotional toll: “The hardest thing for us emotionally has been, we’ve just tried to protect my father and his legacy.”
Rodriguez’s Defense
In response to the allegations, Rodriguez’s attorney stated, “We have filed a written plea of not guilty on his behalf. Mr. Rodriguez maintains his innocence.” The attorney emphasized the importance of observing legal privileges and maintaining fair representation.
Safeguarding Homeowners
To combat property fraud, Hillsborough County offers a free property fraud alert system that notifies owners whenever a document is filed against their property. This proactive measure is crucial for maintaining ownership rights.
Register for the Property Fraud Alert System
Concluding Thoughts
The ongoing saga of Victor Rodriguez and Michelle Cherry serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities within property ownership. As local authorities and victims advocate for better protections, awareness and proactive measures are essential in safeguarding against property fraud.
For more insights on property fraud detection and protection measures, visit:
Stay informed, and ensure your property remains protected against fraudulent actions.