Placerville, Calif. — June 13, 2025 — A sharp rise in real estate fraud across El Dorado County is prompting local officials to launch a public awareness campaign to safeguard landowners, especially those with vacant properties.
El Dorado County Recorder-Clerk Janelle Horne, in partnership with District Attorney Vern Pierson, is urging property owners and real estate professionals to stay alert as criminals increasingly target vacant parcels and unoccupied homes, particularly in South Lake Tahoe, Georgetown, Placerville, and Grizzly Flat.
“These are not just hypothetical scenarios—we are seeing real people being defrauded out of their land,” Horne told the Mountain Democrat. “In one case, the fraudster’s IP address was traced all the way to Panama. That’s how sophisticated these schemes have become.”
In recent months, the Recorder-Clerk’s Office has documented a noticeable uptick in forged deeds and fraudulent transfers of ownership. Scammers often impersonate landowners using falsified IDs and remote online notary services to sell properties without the true owner’s knowledge. Vacant lots are particularly vulnerable, as they often lack structures or active utility accounts—making it harder for neighbors or county officials to spot suspicious activity.
To combat the trend, Horne and Pierson have launched a coordinated effort that includes distributing fraud prevention materials to local real estate agents, title companies, and escrow offices, as well as offering guidance to individual property owners. A presentation prepared by Horne outlines key red flags and actionable steps, including enrolling in El Dorado County’s “Real Estate Fraud Notification” service, which alerts owners when documents are recorded against their property.
District Attorney Vern Pierson echoed the urgency of the initiative. “This type of fraud not only robs people of their property—it undermines trust in our real estate system. We are committed to prosecuting these crimes and protecting our residents,” he said in a joint statement.
Residents are encouraged to verify their property records regularly, use trusted title services during transactions, and immediately report any suspicious activity involving their land or home titles.
The Recorder-Clerk’s Office plans additional community outreach events this summer and is working to improve online tools that help residents monitor and secure their property documents.
For more information or to report a suspected deed fraud case, visit the El Dorado County Recorder-Clerk’s website or contact the DA’s Real Estate Fraud Unit directly.
