Arizona Scammers Caught Stealing Homes from Elderly Residents Through Fake Trust Scheme

Authorities in Arizona uncovered a large real estate fraud scheme involving two individuals who allegedly stole more than 50 homes from elderly homeowners. They pretended to help people avoid foreclosure, but instead, they stole their properties.

According to the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, Edward Trenton Albarracin (also known as Trenton Edwards) and Gretchen Marie Zamjahn (also known as Gretchen Edwards) ran several fake companies, including one called Hands with Hope. They claimed to help struggling homeowners. Investigators say they convinced victims to “temporarily” transfer their property deeds into trusts and LLCs the pair controlled.

The scammers even created fake entities with names that looked like the victims’ own. One example was the Lupo Family Trust, LLC. This trick made the transfers seem legitimate. Albarracin signed the fraudulent deeds, while Zamjahn notarized them illegally.

In some cases, the pair also pushed victims to file false bankruptcy or probate cases. They used these moves to build trust and buy time while quietly taking the victims’ assets.

Attorney General Kris Mayes called the operation a predatory scam that preyed on vulnerable seniors. Her office filed a lawsuit under the Arizona Consumer Fraud Act and the Adult Protective Services Act. The state seeks restitution for victims and civil penalties. It also wants a permanent ban to stop the defendants from ever buying or selling real estate in Arizona again.

A court-appointed receiver has already seized their homes, vehicles, and bank accounts to protect the stolen funds.

Officials urge anyone approached by people offering to “rescue” them from foreclosure—or asking to transfer their deed—to contact the Arizona Attorney General’s Office immediately.