| Houston, Texas – Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee announced today that his office has secured a settlement that includes a defendant's $100,000 restitution payment to Wanda Jackson, a retired HISD teacher who lost two homes to a contractor and home repair financing fraud scheme. Jackson, who taught in Houston schools for over three decades, fell victim to a scam after being referred to a contractor. She believed she was getting a loan to finish home repairs, but instead, the contractor tricked her into signing away ownership of her longtime Houston home. In addition to the monetary settlement, the Harris County Attorney's Office also obtained a permanent injunction, a move that will protect other residents from falling victim to these scammers. "No one should have to deal with a scheme like this, and while we know that this doesn't make up for the years of distress, we are hopeful that this is a step in helping a victim rebuild," County Attorney Menefee said. "Our office will continue to use every tool under Texas law to hold scammers accountable, help victims get justice, and hopefully stop anyone else from thinking they can take advantage of people here in Harris County. Wanda's strength in coming forward will help protect countless others.” Menefee has referenced Jackson's case as one of the catalysts for launching "Scam Free in Harris County," a countywide consumer protection program educating residents on identifying, avoiding, and reporting scams. Through ScamFreeHC.com, residents can access tips on avoiding real estate and consumer scams, download a free resource guide, and report suspicious activity directly to the County Attorney's Office. |