Scam warning as homes targeted in new threat

A man’s $300,000 (AUD $428,000) home was allegedly stolen in a real estate scheme dubbed “Operation Dirty Deed,” which investigators say involved fraudulent documents and the exploitation of the homeowner’s dementia.The alleged victim had lived in the home (above) for roughly 25 years, authorities said. Picture: Google MapsThe case took a disturbing turn when the 71-year-old man, identified in court records as Thomas P. Hegarty, was allegedly kidnapped from his longtime home and discarded at a “dilapidated rooming house” in the US, according to the Broward County Property Appraiser’s Office.Now, two executives for Cash4Keys, a South Florida real estate investment company, each face six criminal charges in connection with the alleged plot. A notary and real estate agent also face charges in connection with the alleged scheme.“His home was taken from him,” Hollywood Police Department Detective Theo Defreze said at a news conference last week. “He lost all of his possessions―belongings, cars. I mean, he lost everything.”Investigators allege that Brandon Lee Miguel and Jordy Luis Perez obtained Hegarty’s signature on a power of attorney document and a warranty deed, which were then use...