Four charged in Hollywood home fraud scheme targeting senior

Four individuals have been arrested following an investigation into the alleged theft of a Hollywood, Florida, home from a 71-year-old man suffering from dementia. Authorities allege the suspects exploited the victim, Thomas P. Hegarty, to gain control of his residence of more than 25 years.

Investigators state that the group obtained the victim's signature on a power of attorney and a warranty deed, which were then falsely notarized. The property, located on the 2200 block of Mayo Street and valued at approximately $300,000, was sold for $191,000 to the company Cash4Keys South Florida, LLC.

Brandon Lee Miguel and Jordy Luis Perez, both 25 and identified as authorized members of the real estate company, face charges including organized scheme to defraud, grand theft, elder exploitation, and money laundering. Monica Elizabeth Castelli, 56, a real estate agent with United Realty Group, is charged with kidnapping with intent to facilitate a felony and elder exploitation. Derek Enrique, 43, a notary public, faces a count of false or fraudulent acknowledgments.

Following the transfer of the property, the victim was removed from his home and taken to a rooming house in Miami Gardens. He was later discovered in distress and hospitalized, where staff alerted his family. Authorities also reported that the suspects emptied the home and took three vehicles, which remain missing.

The investigation was launched after a family member contacted the Hollywood Police Department regarding the victim's declining health and the suspicious property transfer. Broward County Property Appraiser Marty Kiar noted that the victim was targeted due to his extreme vulnerability.

As of the announcement on Oct. 26, 2026, the property remained under the control of Cash4Keys. The victim's family has retained legal counsel to pursue the return of the home, while the defendants await court proceedings.