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Florida real estate agent, Jason Valiant, 45, has been arrested on multiple charges after allegedly orchestrating an elaborate scam that left an elderly couple financially devastated. According to Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood, the scheme began when the couple hired Valiant to sell their property, but instead of selling it, he provided them with fake lowball offers, including one from his own real estate company.

    When the couple became ill and were hospitalized, Valiant created fraudulent documents that listed himself as their health care surrogate and granted him power of attorney. With these documents in hand, he allegedly drained their bank accounts, took possession of their car, and transferred ownership of their properties, worth a total of $1.6 million.

    The sheriff described the scheme as "pure evil," noting that Valiant even used one of the victims' credit cards to pay for personal expenses such as attorney fees, teeth whitening, and car detailing. A DNR order was also signed for one of the victims, who was later removed from life support.

    Valiant faces charges including organized scheme to defraud, exploitation of an elderly or disabled adult, and grand theft. To protect yourself from similar scams, it's essential to keep sensitive documents secure, monitor your bank statements regularly, and be cautious when granting power of attorney to others. If you suspect real estate fraud, contact local authorities and freeze your accounts immediately.