DA's office looks into a possible foreclosure scam

The Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office is investigating a case of alleged loan modification/foreclosure consultant fraud in the Santa Maria area.

According to a press release sent out on Jan. 25, the business in question operates primarily out of Los Angeles County, but has allegedly victimized many homeowners in Northern Santa Barbara County. The business could be offering services under multiple names, including Hermandad Hispanic Group, Crown Point Education, and America Asset Management, according to the DA’s office.

The suspects in the case, Ismael Cancinos and Mercedes Alvarez, might have offered loan modification services, as well as other programs, promising to stop foreclosures or to save homes in foreclosure.

Residents who have any information about the company, Cancinos, or Alvarez are encouraged to call District Attorney Investigator Jennifer Glimp at 737-7871. Spanish speakers can call District Attorney Investigative Assistant Maria Chavez at 346-7519.

It is a felony offense for loan modification and foreclosure consultants to charge any advanced or up-front fees for their services. All contract terms must be met before any fees can be collected and all contracts must be in writing and must comply with statutory regulations.

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