F
lagler County real estate agents Jason Valiant and Constance Kellner are behind bars, accused of an elaborate scam targeting an Ormond Beach couple looking to sell their properties. The scheme led to one victim's death after the agents signed a do-not-resuscitate order on their behalf.

    Jason Valiant, 45, was arrested Thursday night on charges including organized scheme to defraud and exploitation of an elderly or disabled adult. He is being held on a $375,000 bond. Constance Kellner, 69, faces two charges of accessory after the fact and is being held on a $25,000 bond.

    According to investigators, Valiant stole over $18,000 from the couple's bank accounts and used their credit card for personal purchases. He also acquired three properties worth $1.6 million, including oceanfront Flagler Beach parcels that he and Kellner planned to develop into a large condo complex or hotel.

    The Florida Department of Children and Families began investigating Valiant on June 20 after receiving a report that the couple was being exploited. Investigators found evidence of conversations between Valiant and Kellner discussing their plans to "cut out" the couple from the deal and market the property themselves.

    Valiant's girlfriend reported hearing these conversations, which included talk of building a hotel called "Valiant Towers." She also suspected that Valiant was presenting lowball offers to the couple through a fictitious buyer. The girlfriend eventually reported her suspicions to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

    Hospital records showed that Valiant arrived at the hospital with Kellner and a notary public to execute power of attorney forms for the couple, designating him as their health care surrogate. Kellner allegedly accompanied Valiant during an interview with a DCF investigator, where she slapped his leg and told him "don't say that" after he mentioned the couple's deteriorating health.

    Valiant is accused of signing a do-not-resuscitate order for one of the victims on July 2, which led to their death. The investigation showed that Kellner had full knowledge of Valiant's scheme and worked with him to exploit the couple.