District Attorney: Enjoy Tahoe, but don't be conned

In January, 2016, South Tahoe Now carried stories concerning the rise of vacation rental scams in Lake Tahoe. The first story described the epidemic of scams through Craigslist that targeted those looking for vacation rentals in South Lake Tahoe. This was followed up with a second story where we followed David Stevenson from the El Dorado County District Attorney's Office as he interviewed Kathy Jo Liebhardt, owner of Tahoe Destination Vacation Rentals. Several of her homes have been targeted by the scammers since they are higher end homes where the crooks can get more money out of the victims.

The El Dorado County DA's office just released the film they filmed in South Lake Tahoe. They will use this throughout the state to warn people of potential scams and how to save renters from falling victim.

Here is the release from Vern Pierson, El Dorado County DA:

El Dorado County is a vacation destination with its beautiful lakes and rivers, award winning wineries and year round fun in South Lake Tahoe. However, scammers have found a way to commit fraud and spoil your vacation. This video gives you some “dos and don’ts” when it comes to renting your dream vacation home.

Scammers have created fake websites, reviews and have even copied other websites making their site look legitimate. Scams have included other vacation rental homes, vacant homes, and homes that are currently being lived in by the owner. Recent statistics reveal that this fraudulent criminal behavior is on the rise with losses in the millions

Although these cases can be difficult to investigate and prosecute, our office employs a Real Estate Fraud Investigator to handle these complaints. This Investigator uses advanced tracking tools, internet collaboration with allied agencies and the private sector, coupled with search warrants, which have been very successful in the identification of suspects.

District Attorney Vern Pierson commented, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” and this is why we are encouraging people to watch our video and use these few basic steps before renting a vacation home:

- Use a rental company with a local address and a published phone number with a tried and true history
- Use a credit card that will protect you for the initial payment
- Speak with the person via the phone and confirm ownership through the County Assessor's Office
- NEVER wire money anywhere including a legitimate bank account
- IF IT SEEMS TO GOOD TO BE TRUE, IT PROBABLY IS