Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has called on the New York State Department of Financial Services to launch an investigation after a troubling report described instances of deed fraud and deceptive practices targeted at homeowners in Brooklyn.
The governor has also asked that the Department’s Foreclosure Relief Unit provide assistance to homeowners who believe they may have been a victim of deed fraud or unfair, deceptive practices in regard to the sale or attempted purchase of their home.
“The illegal and deceptive actions to rob New Yorkers of their homes reported today are disgraceful and must be stopped,” Cuomo said. “Anyone found guilty of this repugnant behavior will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
In August, Cuomo signed legislation increasing protections and closing loopholes to prevent deed fraud and mortgage scams. The new law protects homeowners whose homes are in default or in foreclosure, increasing the likelihood that a victim will have the opportunity to seek recovery in court.
