In Florida, specifically related to the Hammocks Homeowners Association (HOA), at least eight individuals associated with the board of directors have been arrested in connection with fraud schemes. This includes:
- Five board members were arrested in November 2022 for charges including racketeering, grand theft, and money laundering, accused of stealing over $2 million.
- Three additional arrests were made in the ongoing investigation, with the latest reported in November 2024.
- In 2022, a former HOA president in Lantana, Florida, was arrested for embezzling over $2 million from the association.
- In 2020, a Broward County HOA board member was charged with stealing $300,000 from residents.
- In 2019, a Miami-Dade HOA treasurer was arrested for misusing $1.5 million in association funds.
These are just to point out a few; there are so many more cases that are under investigation.
Common Types of Fraud in HOA:
- Embezzlement of HOA fees.
- Kickbacks from contractors.
- Falsifying financial records.
- Unauthorized use of association funds for personal expenses.
How to Find Specific HOA Cases
- Local News Outlets: Media like the Miami Herald, Tampa Bay Times, or Orlando Sentinel often report on HOA scandals.
- Court Records: Search county court databases (e.g., Miami-Dade Clerk of Courts) for cases involving HOAs.
- Florida DBPR: The Department of Business and Professional Regulation investigates HOA complaints and may provide records of disciplinary actions.
- Florida Attorney General: While not HOA-specific, their office occasionally highlights major fraud cases.
Steps to Report Suspected HOA Fraud
If you suspect fraud in your Florida HOA:
- Document Evidence: Gather financial records, emails, contracts, ect.
- File a complaint with the HOA’s board (if not complicit).
- File a complaint with Florida DBPR (www.myfloridalicense.com).
- File a complaint with local law enforcement (e.g., sheriff’s office or police department).
- Consult an Attorney: Specialized HOA attorneys can help navigate civil or criminal actions.
Add comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.