Couple charged with bank fraud in short sale

A Henderson couple was charged in federal court Wednesday for committing bank fraud against Wells Fargo Bank, according to the U.S. attorney’s office.

Cynthia Hosbrook, 41, a current licensed real estate agent, and Robert Hosbrook, 51, a former licensed real estate agent, are accused of having a relative act as a straw buyer to purchase their Henderson residence in March 2010.

Acccording to bank documents, the Hosbrooks falsely reported to Wells Fargo that their house would be sold in a short sale to parties who were not relatives or business associates, and they would not live as renters at the house after it was sold.

The Hosbrooks also had the relative sign a false and fraudulent title company form in July 2010 stating the relative would be residing in the house, according to officials.

The couple was charged with bank fraud and conspiracy to commit bank fraud and are summoned to appear in court on June 21.

If convicted, they face up to 30 years in prison and fines of up to $1 million on each count.

Contact reporter Caitlyn Belcher at cbelcher@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0264.