Attorney General Ashley Moody's Office of Statewide Prosecution has achieved a significant victory in the fight against fraudulent real estate investments. Miquel Angel Perez, the mastermind behind an elaborate scheme that defrauded more than 20 victims out of their retirement and life savings, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison. The charges against Perez include racketeering, grand theft, exploitation, and mortgage fraud.
According to the investigation, Perez lured victims into his scheme by holding free investment seminars, where he showcased his supposed success in real estate investments. He promised attendees that they too could achieve financial wealth by investing in his projects. However, it was all a facade as Perez used false statements and deceptive tactics to trick victims into investing their hard-earned money.
Attorney General Ashley Moody expressed her satisfaction with the outcome of the case, stating, "This real estate schemer claimed to be a successful investor but instead stole people's hard-earned money, leaving many in deep debt and with poor credit. He tricked more than 20 victims, including senior citizens, to gain millions in investment funds all to fund his own lavish lifestyle. Now, thanks to our law enforcement partners and Statewide Prosecutors, his next real estate venture will be relocating to a jail cell."
One of the victims in this case was a senior citizen who owned a home outright. Perez convinced the victim to take out all the equity through a home equity line of credit, promising to make all the payments and use the funds for investment purposes. However, Perez misappropriated the funds for personal benefit, leading to the victim's bank filing a foreclosure action.
Assistant Statewide Prosecutors Stephanie Bergen and Panagiota Papakos from Attorney General Moody's Office of Statewide Prosecution skillfully handled the case, ensuring that justice was served. The investigation into Perez's fraudulent activities was a collaborative effort involving the Office of Financial Regulation, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Pasco County Sheriff's Office.
This successful prosecution serves as a reminder that the Attorney General's Office is committed to protecting the financial well-being of Floridians and will not tolerate individuals who engage in fraudulent schemes. The 30-year prison sentence handed down to Miquel Angel Perez sends a clear message to potential fraudsters that their actions will not go unpunished.
The victims of Perez's scheme have been left in financial ruin, with their retirement and life savings stolen from them. It is essential for individuals to remain vigilant when approached with investment opportunities and to thoroughly research any claims made by individuals promising quick and significant returns.
Attorney General Ashley Moody's Office of Statewide Prosecution will continue its efforts to identify and prosecute those who seek to defraud innocent individuals. Through collaboration with law enforcement agencies and dedicated prosecutors, the Attorney General's Office will ensure that justice is served and that the people of Florida are protected from such fraudulent schemes in the future.