2 in Queens are first to be prosecuted under New York's new deed theft law
NEW YORK (WABC) -- Criminal charges were filed in Queens against two people who allegedly stole a dying woman's home through deed theft.
New York Attorney General Letitia James says Deepa Roy, 68, and Victor Quimis, 39, are the first to be prosecuted under stiffer new felony laws.
They are accused of working together to steal the home of Renuka Bherwani while she was receiving hospice care.
James says the two forged the woman's signature and filed a new deed on the home in Kew Gardens Hills then took out a half-million dollar mortgage.
"Deepa Roy and Victor Quimis preyed on an elderly widow in hospice to steal the home she owned for nearly 40 years," said Attorney General James. "Cases like this one are exactly why I fought to advance new laws empowering my office to prosecute deed theft and protect New Yorkers' homes. I will continue to use the law as both a sword and a shield to stop these despicable crimes and ensure this home is returned to the Bherwani family."
The victim's son says the ordeal has been heartbreaking.
"Losing a mother to failing health is devastating enough, trying to protect her home from fraudsters during this time has made that pain and sadness far more difficult to bear," Kamal Bherwani said.
James says deed theft is a growing crime, especially in neighborhoods undergoing gentrification.
If you think you are a victim, reach out to the New York AG's office online or by phone at 1(800) 771-7755 for help.
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