Tampa Feds Announce Mortgage Fraud Charges Against 100+ Suspects Involving $400M+ In Fraudulently Obtained Loans Affecting 700+ Properties

In Tampa, Florida, the St. Petersburg Times reports:

• An intensive, nine-month federal investigation of mortgage fraud that stretched from Jacksonville to Tampa and Fort Myers has resulted in charges against 105 people, authorities said Tuesday. U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton called Florida ground zero for mortgage fraud in the nation. He released details of an investigative "surge" in May, saying the goal was to restore confidence in the real estate market and send a message that "mortgage fraud won't be tolerated." "This is by no means the end of vigorous mortgage fraud prosecution in the Middle District of Florida," Albritton said at a news conference Tuesday, where he touted the successful effort.

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• The U.S. Attorney's Office said the joint investigation with the FBI and other federal and state agencies involved more than $400 million in loans procured by fraud on more than 700 properties. Those charged in the surge range from multiple borrowers to real estate and title agents, investors and the president and owners of mortgage companies. [...] Seven cases among the 105 charged individuals remain sealed, but Albritton said those should become public soon.

For the story, see Feds announce more than 100 prosecutions in mortgage fraud surge.

Go here to see the list of all the defendants.