Florida woman arrested in alleged real estate scam

FLORIDA – Agents with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) have arrested a Florida woman the agency accused of stealing hundreds of thousands from dozens of victims in a complex real estate scam.

The FDLE said it arrested Tabria Anorria Josey, 20, of Loxahatchee, on charges of scheme to defraud, grand theft, money laundering, aggravated white-collar crime, and communications fraud.

“The defendant took advantage of Florida’s red-hot real estate market to rip off homebuyers and renters. Her crimes spanned six counties, involved 25 properties and tricked consumers into parting with nearly $300,000,” said Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody.

FDLE agents say Josey listed properties for sale on various real estate websites without the owners’ knowledge and would often impersonate the owners.  Once a victim committed to buying the property, Josey would act as the title agent facilitating the closing, the FDLE said.

As part of the scheme, she allegedly created fictitious title companies, websites, title agent identities, and unique email addresses making the sale appear legitimate.

Agents have identified more than 45 victims and 25 properties that Josey attempted to sell or rent, the FDLE said.

The case involved properties in Lee, Indian River, Palm Beach, Flagler, Orange, and St. Lucie counties.  Investigators say nearly $300,000 was stolen as part of this scam.

The investigation is ongoing, and FDLE agents say there could be additional victims.  If you have information about this crime, please contact FDLE Fort Myers at (800) 407-4880.

Josey was arrested yesterday in Loxahatchee and booked into the Palm Beach County Jail.  Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution will prosecute this case.