Oklahoma Man Charged After Trying to File Deed for $5.4M Home He Allegedly Did Not Own

A 29-year-old man was arrested in Oklahoma City after authorities say he tried to fraudulently obtain the deed to a multimillion-dollar home, according to FOX 25 (KOKH).

What happened

Investigators say Antonio Moore was trying to file a deed claiming ownership of a 14,000-square-foot home in Gaillardia valued at $5.4 million. Investigators say he returned to the Oklahoma County Clerk's Office on September 25 and again on September 30, each time trying to file more paperwork claiming ownership.

Moore was arrested on September 30 and booked into the Oklahoma County Detention Center. He has been charged with forgery and attempting to obtain property through deception.

The deed was never recorded. According to the report, Sheriff Johnson said that if it had been recorded, the homeowner could have faced a much more complicated situation.

Why it matters to homeowners

A recorded deed becomes part of the public record for a property. Once a false document is on file, the true owner may have to take steps to correct the record, which can take time and create stress, especially if the owner is not aware it happened. In this case, the filing did not go through, so the owner was spared that outcome.

The case shows why it helps to pay attention to what is filed against your property, no matter how large or small the home is. The details above are allegations from investigators, and the charges are not proof of guilt.

What you can do

• Check your county recorder or clerk's website. Many counties let you search records by name or address so you can see what has been filed.
• Sign up for property fraud alerts if your county offers them. These notices can tell you when a document is recorded under your name.
• Watch your mail. Unexpected letters about your property, your mortgage or your taxes deserve a closer look.
• Keep your own records handy. Store a copy of your deed and closing documents in a safe place.
• Act quickly if something looks wrong. Contact the county clerk's office and local law enforcement, and consider speaking with a real estate attorney about next steps.

Source: FOX 25 (KOKH)