A Central Florida woman was recently sentenced for deed fraud.
49-year-old Amy Linn Ramirez, of Belleview, Florida, was found guilty of Unlawful Filing of False Documents or Records Against Real or Personal Property. Following her conviction, Judge Timothy McCourt sentenced Ramirez to five years in the Florida Department of Corrections.
“Property deed fraud is a serious crime that can lead to devastating financial consequences for homeowners,” said State Attorney for the Fifth Judicial Circuit Bill Gladson. “Criminals can sell a property or take out a loan against it by forging documents, leaving the real homeowner in financial distress. Cases involving property fraud are often complex and time-consuming for homeowners trying to clear their title and reclaim their ownership.”
On October 26, 2024, a real estate agent contacted the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) to report a suspicious incident. An MCSO deputy arrived at a residence located off SE 123rd Lane in Belleview, where the complainant advised she arrived at the home to conduct a final walk-through to sign paperwork to close the deal for selling the residence to the victim. Upon arrival, they were met by a handyman who had changed the locks on the home and refused to give the key to the home, stating he was hired by the homeowner, Amy Ramirez, to change the locks.
“The Property Alert Service offered by our office is designed to assist citizens in detecting unauthorized or potentially fraudulent activities related to their property,” said Marion County Clerk of Court and Comptroller Gregory C. Harrell. “This valuable resource gives owners the ability to monitor various activities and transactions concerning their properties. Subscribers will receive notifications about these transactions, and if they suspect any fraudulent behavior, they are strongly advised to contact law enforcement right away or consult with legal counsel.”
During the investigation, the real estate agent found a fraudulent document filed by Ramirez regarding the property. A falsified warranty deed was submitted while the property was under contract with the current homeowner. Law enforcement contacted Ramirez, who confirmed she never lived at or owned the victim’s property but claimed she was learning about abandoned property laws.
She filed for a ‘Quiet Title’ to assert ownership, stating it was a civil matter. Ramirez was subsequently arrested and charged.
This case was successfully prosecuted by Assistant State Attorney William Harris.
Visit the Marion County Clerk of Court and Comptroller to sign up for the Property Alert Service.
