In a startling case that underscores the persistent issue of property deed fraud in New York, 55-year-old Danny Noble from Baldwin has been re-arrested for attempting to fraudulently claim ownership of a Brooklyn home he had previously targeted. Noble was arraigned before Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Danny Chun on charges including grand larceny, falsifying business records, and offering a false instrument for filing.
A Brazen Repeat Offense
Noble’s criminal history with this particular property dates back to 2019, when he successfully used a phony deed to seize ownership of the $2 million Brooklyn residence. For this and similar crimes involving nine homes across New York City, he was sentenced to 4.5 to 9 years in prison. However, due to early release provisions during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noble was back on the streets sooner than anticipated.
Undeterred by his prior conviction, Noble returned to the same Brooklyn property in September 2023, once again employing fraudulent documents in an attempt to reclaim ownership. This time, his efforts were thwarted by the rightful homeowner, leading to his re-arrest. Prosecutors, highlighting Noble’s extensive history of felony convictions, sought a $1 million cash bail. Judge Chun ultimately set the bail at $300,000 or a $2.5 million bond. Noble is scheduled to return to court on April 23.
The Growing Concern of Deed Fraud
Deed fraud, often referred to as deed theft, involves scammers illegally transferring property ownership by forging or falsifying documents. This crime has seen a troubling rise in New York, particularly in Brooklyn neighborhoods like Bedford-Stuyvesant and Crown Heights. Con artists frequently target vulnerable populations, including the elderly, immigrants, and communities of color. In some instances, homeowners are deceived into signing documents they don’t fully understand; in others, signatures are outright forged without the homeowner’s knowledge.
Recent Legislative Measures
In response to the surge in deed theft cases, New York State has enacted robust legislation to combat this form of fraud. As of July 2024, deed theft is explicitly classified as a form of grand larceny under state law. This amendment extends the statute of limitations, providing authorities with more time to identify and investigate such crimes. Additionally, the law grants the Office of the Attorney General original criminal jurisdiction to prosecute deed theft offenses alongside local district attorneys.
Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized the significance of this legislation, stating, “This legislation is New York’s strongest tool yet to crack down on illegal deed theft and put the American Dream back in the hands of thousands of New York homeowners.” The law aims to empower homeowners and law enforcement agencies to combat fraudulent property transfers more effectively.
Community Impact and Notable Cases
The repercussions of deed fraud are devastating, often resulting in homeowners losing properties they’ve owned for decades. A poignant example is the case of 90-year-old Ray Cortez, who faces eviction from his Brooklyn home of over 50 years after allegedly falling victim to a deed scam in 2006. Despite his family’s efforts to rectify the situation, the property was foreclosed and sold, and Cortez now confronts displacement. This case highlights the urgent need for continued vigilance and legal protections against such fraudulent activities.
Preventative Measures and Resources
Homeowners are encouraged to take proactive steps to safeguard their properties from potential fraud. The New York City Department of Finance offers a Property Fraud Alert system, allowing property owners to monitor any document recordings related to their property. Additionally, the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office provides resources and guidance on deed fraud, including a comprehensive guide titled Protect Your Home: Deed Fraud Guide. If fraud is suspected, it’s imperative to act swiftly by reporting the incident to the Sheriff’s Office and obtaining a certified copy of the fraudulent document.
Conclusion
The re-arrest of Danny Noble serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by deed fraud in New York. While recent legislative advancements offer enhanced tools for prosecution and prevention, the onus also falls on homeowners to remain vigilant and informed. Through a combination of legal measures, community awareness, and proactive monitoring, the fight against property deed fraud continues, aiming to protect the rights and homes of New Yorkers.
(Source : nypost.com)
