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David White of Cobleskill, Schoharie County, won more than $1.2 million in damages after a deed-fraud scheme nearly cost him his home.
A Knock on the Door That Changed Everything
In June 2023, Joseph Goodnough came to White’s door and offered help with unpaid property taxes. White thought he was signing papers related to back-tax payments. Instead, Goodnough rushed him through a stack of documents at a Stewart’s Shops location in Schenectady. He pointed to each signature line, covering pages before White could read them. White left without copies or payment.
From “Helping Hand” to Eviction Notice
Soon after, Goodnough began forcing White out of his home. He shut off the power and water, leaving White without utilities. When White refused to leave, Goodnough called for a wellness check. Police arrived and handed White an eviction notice. The situation worsened when Goodnough resold the property to other buyers.
Legal Battle and Court Ruling
Attorney James Sottile took White’s case and uncovered the deception. He found that Goodnough tricked White into signing over the deed, then flipped the home for profit. Sottile also represents another family from Rensselaer County with a similar experience involving Goodnough.
Judge Peter Lynch ruled that Goodnough showed “wanton dishonesty and evil bent.” The court ordered him to pay White over $1.2 million in damages. In a separate criminal case, Goodnough pleaded guilty to grand larceny in Schenectady County. He received 12 weekends in jail—just 24 days total—and a $20,000 fine.
Deed Fraud: A Growing Threat to Homeowners
Deed fraud, also known as title theft, is rising nationwide. Scammers often target owners who face foreclosure, tax debt, or vacancy. They forge or misrepresent property transfers and resell the home before victims can react.
White’s story shows how fast this crime unfolds and how little punishment offenders often face. Many homeowners don’t realize what happened until an eviction notice or utility shutoff arrives.
Protecting Your Home Title
White’s determination helped him reclaim his home, but most victims never recover their property. Early detection is key. Ongoing title monitoring can stop fraudulent transfers before damage occurs.
Protect your home title before trouble starts.
Title Fraud Defender tracks your property and alerts you within 24 hours of any recorded title change. Visit titlefrauddefender.com to learn how to secure your most valuable asset.
Source: https://wnyt.com/top-stories/man-ordered-to-pay-over-1-2-million-in-deed-fraud-case/
