Title Fraud: The Hidden Threat to Homeownership in Broward County

Understanding Title Fraud

Title fraud is an alarming issue that has been on the rise in Broward County, revealing how vulnerable homeowners can be to property theft. Shocking as it might sound, individuals have been known to manipulate legal documentation to claim ownership of homes they do not own. This complex form of fraud specifically targets vulnerable groups, including seniors and low-income homeowners.

What is Title Fraud?

Title fraud occurs when someone uses the court system to illegally transfer property ownership. This can involve:

• Creating Fake Deeds: Criminals produce forged documents with counterfeit signatures.
• Filing with the Wrongful Intent: These forged deeds are submitted to local property record offices, effectively listing fraudsters as the new property owners.

Broward County’s Response to Title Fraud

In response to the rising tide of property theft, the Broward County Property Appraiser’s Office has launched a proactive initiative. Marty Kiar, the Broward Property Appraiser, has taken significant steps to combat this issue by forming the Crimes Against Property Unit, the first of its kind in the state.

Key Facts about the Crimes Against Property Unit

• Active Cases: Approximately 40 cases are currently under investigation, with an expectation to work on around 200 cases in the year.
• Collaborative Effort: The unit collaborates with the Broward Sheriff’s Office, Fort Lauderdale Police, and the Broward State Attorney’s Office to investigate property crimes.
• Impact: Law enforcement has already made several arrests linked to fraudulent activities related to at least 14 homes.

The Methodology of Property Thieves

Criminals often exploit public records to identify potential targets. Common tactics include:

• Researching Property Owners: Thieves gather personal information, including property addresses.
• Manufacturing Documentation: They create forged legal documents that appear legitimate, aided by falsified notarization.

As Detective Robert Feick of the Broward Sheriff’s Office stated, “The amount of the properties that these people are able to compromise is surprising.” Investigators often uncover extensive paper trails relating to these fraud cases, requiring meticulous examination to trace the scams back to the offenders.

Protective Measures for Homeowners

Homeowners can take invaluable steps to safeguard their property against title fraud. One effective resource offered by Broward County is the Owner Alert program.

Benefits of the Owner Alert Program

• Instant Notifications: Homeowners receive alerts when any deed affecting their property ownership is filed.
• Proactive Defense: Being notified quickly allows homeowners to take necessary legal steps to rectify title issues immediately.

Marty Kiar emphasizes that early detection can be crucial: “If you’re notified almost instantaneously, or maybe the day later, that that deed is filed, you’re going to take all the steps you need to ensure your title is not clouded.”

Conclusion

Title fraud represents a significant threat to property ownership in Broward County. However, thanks to initiatives like the Crimes Against Property Unit and resources such as the Owner Alert program, homeowners can better protect themselves against potential threats. By staying informed and alerting authorities to suspicious activities, residents contribute to the ongoing fight against this pervasive form of fraud.

For more information on Broward’s Owner Alert program, visit Broward Property Appraiser’s website. If you reside in Miami-Dade County, you can find similar resources here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What should I do if I suspect title fraud?
  If you suspect title fraud, contact your local law enforcement and consult with an attorney specialized in property law.

• How common is title fraud in Florida?
  According to the Broward Property Appraiser, South Florida is deemed the title fraud capital of the world, underscoring the need for vigilance among homeowners.

• Is the Owner Alert program free?
  Yes, the Owner Alert service provided by Broward County is free for homeowners to help them monitor their property for any unauthorized changes.