Scam Alert: Fraudsters steal woman’s home with $13K sale – judge rules she can’t have it back
A homeowner’s worst nightmare became a reality for Janis Bryant Hayes from Dayton, Ohio, when she discovered that her apartment building had been stolen, and then sold for a mere $13,000 by the fraudsters. Let’s delve into the heart-wrenching details of this unfortunate incident.
Discovering the Deception
The 75-year-old Bryant Hayes was left in disbelief when she drove by her property in 2021 only to find strangers working on what was once her cherished possession. The realization that her home, in her possession for over thirty years, had been deceitfully taken away from her years prior to that fateful day was a bitter pill to swallow.
The Deed of Deception
A fraudulent quitclaim deed was used to transfer the property to a limited liability corporation, as reported by the Dayton Daily News. The apartment building changed hands multiple times through sales until Bryant Hayes finally took notice of the ongoing construction work on the property.
An Unfortunate Verdict
In a heartbreaking turn of events, a judge adjudicated last month that due to the cumulative victims affected by the fraudulent deeds, Bryant Hayes could not be granted her property back. County records now list Brandon McClure as the property’s owner after he purchased it for a mere $13,500 in 2020.
Innocence Lost
Despite being labelled an innocent victim of quitclaim deed fraud by Judge Mary Wiseman, Bryant Hayes was not absolved of all blame. The judge highlighted the property’s neglect and overdue property tax payments on Bryant Hayes’ part, which led to the unfortunate outcome.
The Quitclaim Deed Scam Unveiled
The deceitful practice of quitclaim deed fraud, as seen in Bryant Hayes’ case, robs owners of their properties and profits the fraudsters involved. It’s a surreptitious scheme that can leave innocent victims grappling with the harsh realities of losing their homes to unscrupulous individuals.
Raising Awareness
With Bryant Hayes’ story shedding light on the prevalence of quitclaim deed fraud, it’s essential for property owners to remain vigilant. Taking proactive measures such as monitoring property document changes through alert systems can help thwart potential fraudulent activities.
The Call to Action
As Bryant Hayes’ ordeal serves as a cautionary tale, property owners nationwide are urged to safeguard their assets against the looming threat of deed fraud. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, individuals can protect their homes from falling prey to fraudulent schemes.
Let us all learn from Bryant Hayes’ harrowing experience and fortify our defenses against the perils of property fraud. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and safeguard what’s rightfully yours.