Hollywood Police Arrest Four for Defrauding Elderly Man
Suspects allegedly seized a man's home by exploiting his dementia to secure fraudulent signatures.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Financial Crime
Authorities arrested four individuals for allegedly exploiting a 71-year-old Hollywood man suffering from dementia to steal his home. The group purportedly used fraudulent power of attorney and deed documents to transfer the property title.
Why it matters
The case highlights the vulnerability of elderly citizens to financial exploitation, where suspects target cognitively impaired individuals to misappropriate high-value assets. Protecting senior homeowners from fraudulent transfers remains a major priority for local law enforcement.
Brandon Lee Miguel and Jordy Luis Perez face charges including organized scheme to defraud, grand theft, and money laundering. Monica Elizabeth Castelli is charged with kidnapping and exploitation, while Derek Enrique faces charges for fraudulent acknowledgments.
The players
Brandon Lee Miguel
He is a suspect facing multiple felony charges including money laundering and grand theft.
Jordy Luis Perez
He is a suspect accused of participating in the organized scheme to defraud the victim.
Monica Elizabeth Castelli
She is a suspect charged with kidnapping and the exploitation of an elderly person.
Derek Enrique
He is a suspect charged with providing false or fraudulent acknowledgments.
The details
The suspects allegedly relocated the victim to a rooming house in Miami Gardens after seizing control of his Hollywood residence. They also reportedly removed three personal vehicles and other property from the home during the operation.
Timeline
October 26, 2026: Official details regarding the arrests were published.
Legal Context
This case follows a pattern of rigorous enforcement under the Florida state statutes on the exploitation of an elderly person. It reflects a broader trend of authorities aggressively prosecuting fraudulent property transfers targeting cognitively impaired individuals.
Residents should ensure their own or their loved ones' property titles and power of attorney documents are kept secure and regularly reviewed with legal counsel. This incident serves as a warning for families to monitor the financial activities and living situations of elderly relatives.
The takeaway
Family members should frequently verify the status of deeds and legal documents to prevent unauthorized transfers. If an elderly relative with cognitive decline is moved suddenly, contact authorities immediately to investigate potential exploitation.
Further reading
For more information on legal protections, visit the Financial Crime section.
