Authorities investigating rental scam in Hernando County

TAMPA, Fla. – July 14, 2009 – Property managers along the Gulf Coast beware: Criminals in the area are lifting rental listings, fraudulently adding their name as a contact, and posting it on Craigslist. The consumer sees a legitimate listing, but then contacts the criminal to request more information.
 
A report has been filed with the Pasco County Sheriff’s Department regarding a specific incident in Hernando County. According to the sheriff’s office, criminals have gone to extraordinary means to collect the first month’s rent and a security deposit. In some cases, they have drilled into lockboxes and placed renters in properties. Tenants who pay the criminals then believe they have a legal tenancy. The case has been turned over to investigators with the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, though Pasco County law enforcement authorities also remain on the alert for additional incidents.

So far, the problem seems limited to the central Gulf Coast area, but it could be duplicated anywhere in the state.

If Realtors suspect a similar crime has occurred, they should call the local police or sheriff’s office rather than try to deal with the problem.

© 2009 FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
 

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