With the surge in foreclosures around California, including parts of Monterey County, foreclosure-related fraud such as the one allegedly run by the three suspects, is expected to continue to pose serious threats to homeowners and consumers. Monterey County District Attorney Dean Flippo cautions Monterey County homeowners facing foreclosure or behind on their home payments to be extremely wary of persons or businesses posing as real estate or “foreclosure rescue” professionals. Homeowners should also be aware of the fact that foreclosure notices or home loan defaults are typically a matter of public record thereby enabling con artists to pose as real estate professionals and pitch foreclosure rescue schemes. California law prohibits the collection of advance fees by “foreclosure consultants” from any homeowner who has defaulted on a home loan and faces foreclosure.

To avoid becoming the victim of a real estate fraud scheme, the District Attorney urges homeowners and consumers to demand proof of a California real estate license and verify the license status with the California Department of Real Estate and obtain professional and client references before engaging the services of the professional.

Any persons having information about the suspects or the foreclosure rescue operation are asked to contact the Gonzales Police Department at 831-675-5010.