Tallahassee News

Tallahassee Real Estate Agent Faces Felony Charges For Stealing Client's Home

Real Estate Agent Accused of Grand Theft and Forgery

A Tallahassee real estate agent is facing felony charges after being accused of stealing a client's home. The agent, 35-year-old John Smith, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with grand theft and forgery.

According to the Leon County Sheriff's Office, Smith allegedly forged the client's signature on a deed and then sold the home without the client's knowledge or consent.

Client Loses Home and Life Savings

The victim, a 65-year-old widow, lost her home and her life savings in the scam. She had trusted Smith to help her sell her home, but instead, she said, he stole it from her.

"I'm devastated," the victim said. "I don't know what I'm going to do. I've lost everything."

Agent Had Previous Criminal Record

Smith had a previous criminal record, including convictions for fraud and forgery. However, he was able to obtain a real estate license in Florida.

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is investigating how Smith was able to get a license despite his criminal history.

DBPR Investigating Agent's License

The DBPR is also investigating whether Smith violated any other laws or regulations.

The agency has the authority to revoke or suspend Smith's license if it finds that he violated any laws or regulations.

Smith Faces Up to 30 Years in Prison

If convicted of the charges, Smith faces up to 30 years in prison.

He is being held in the Leon County Jail without bond.

Conclusion

The case of John Smith is a reminder that it is important to be careful when choosing a real estate agent.

Consumers should always do their research and check the agent's license and criminal background before hiring them.

They should also be wary of any agent who pressures them to sign a contract or who makes promises that seem too good to be true.