Florida Man & Woman Plead Guilty to Mortgage Fraud

29-year-old Monique Mitchell of Pembroke Pines and 34-year-old Sheldon Martin of Plantation both pleaded guilty to one count of making false statements on a HUD-1 Real Estate Settlement Form. Mitchell and Martin face a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison.

The fraudulent form was prepared in connection with the sale of a $1.25 million home in Fort Lauderdale in January, 2008. Mitchell and Martin reported false information on the form to Regions Bank, the lender, with regard to the down payment, the amount repaid to the previous lender, and the cash on hand at the time of closing. The pair also concealed money paid to The Pines Law Center from Regions Bank at the closing.

Mitchell worked at the Attorneys Title Center in Pembroke Pines and Martin was self-employed as a licensed mortgage broker. They will be sentenced on July 21.

If you are facing serious white collar crime charges, you should speak with a criminal defense attorney who is ready to explain your legal options and rights.