F
our individuals, including a couple who gained notoriety for a road rage incident caught on camera in 2022, are accused of an elaborate rental fraud scheme targeting over a dozen properties in Harris County, Texas. The suspects allegedly used the stolen identity of a local woman to rent homes and then lease them out to others through online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace.

    The suspected ringleader, Harold Doyle, was previously a realtor whose license was revoked in 2021. He operated out of an office suite where he also did taxes for the identity theft victim, who had no idea her information was being used. Police arrested Doyle at this office with a fake ID and found extensive amounts of fraudulent real estate applications.

    The scheme involved at least 13 properties, with one tenant finding a listing on Facebook Marketplace and paying a $300 deposit via Zelle. The Houston Association of Realtors warns that Houston is a hot market for rental scams and advises people to be cautious when using online platforms to find rentals.

    During the investigation, police discovered a WhatsApp group chat where the accused fraudsters discussed 62 properties they had been targeting. The suspects are now out on bond after being charged with engaging in organized criminal activity.