DA: East Meadow Man Pleads Guilty in Real Estate Scam

Photo: Jamel Smith. Credit: NCPD

An East Meadow man pleaded guilty in a real estate scam to defraud people of rent and security deposits, according to the Nassau County District Attorney’s office.

Jamel Smith, 30, pleaded guilty to third-degree grand larceny before Judge Angelo Delligatti Friday, said the DA.

Prosecutors recommended a six-month jail sentence in addition to paying a full $19,275 restitution, said the DA.

Investigators said between January and May of 2012, Smith pretended to be a real estate agent and took downpayments for rental properties in Elmont, Hempstead, and West Hempstead. Smith posted false advertisements on Craigslist for properties before taking first and last months’ rent and a security deposit from victims, said the DA. Read more here.

After fielding complaints from victims, Smith was charged in June 2012.

Smith is due back in court Dec. 15.

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