In effort to stem deed theft, shady practices banned

A slew of reforms to ban behaviors connected to deed theft were signed into law last week, alongside a streamlined way for fraud victims to win back possession of their property.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo last Wednesday signed the “Deed Theft Bill,” increasing protections for homeowners whose properties are in default or foreclosure. The bill prohibits practices including the harassment of financially distressed homeowners from unscrupulous “consultants” claiming to lend a hand, and also makes it easier for victims of fraud to regain their lost property.

The bill’s sponsors — State Sen. Velmanette Montgomery (D-Bedford-Stuyvesant-Red Hook) and Assemblymember Helene Weinstein (D-Flatlands-Sheepshead Bay) — first introduced the bill back in February. It passed in the state legislature in April.

“Thieves target our most vulnerable homeowners and snatch generations of wealth from our families,” said Montgomery after the bill signing. “For every one that thinks to call their elected officials or speak out, a dozen more do not know where to turn.”

To read the full story, visit https://brooklyneagle.com/articles/2019/08/20/in-effort-to-stem-deed-theft-shady-practices-banned/