The Fort Myers Police Department would like to take this opportunity to warn city residents of a popular scam involving property deeds. With this scam, the victim (usually a new homeowner) receives a letter requesting money, upward of $80.00, in order to get a copy of the homeowner’s property deed.
These notices are made to look like “bills” being sent from government agencies and that compliance is necessary. Some of the scammers will use titles such as “Deed Processing Service” or “Records Transfer Services” to facilitate the con and go as far as having your property “STRAP” number included on the document.
FMPD would like you to do your due diligence and thoroughly inspect all mail in order to combat this crime. In fact, these records are public record and are available through the Lee County Clerk of Court Office for $1 a page and $2 to certify the copies, should the homeowner need an additional copy. The average deed is 2-3 pages. “If you receive a solicitation asking for more money after your closing it probably isn’t legitimate,” said police spokesperson Lieutenant Victor Medico.
Lieutenant Victor Medico
Public Information Officer
Fort Myers Police Department
2210 Widman Way
Fort Myers, Florida 33901
(239) 321-7748
vmedico@fmpolice.com