A Win for Protecting Texas Consumers

After combing through 1,100 complaints during his 11-year tenure with the Commission, TREC Chief Investigator Roy Minton wins Investigator of the Year for a second time. The first win was in 2019. Both recognitions, by the Association of Real Estate License Law Officials (ARELLO), were given for Minton's work in uncovering rental fraud.

One of Minton's latest rental fraud cases- the one recognized for excellence by ARELLO this year-involved 300 pieces of evidence showing a repeated pattern of deception by one license holder for approximately eight months. During that time, 52 fraudulent lease applications were submitted to property owners in the Houston metropolitan area. The applications contained altered credit reports and paycheck stubs, and fraudulent contact information. The purpose of this scheme was to present individuals as qualified applicants to unsuspecting landlords. And the unqualified tenants were exploited by being charged excessive fees in exchange for lease approval.

Minton's investigation led to the revocation of this person's real estate license and a $15,000 penalty. It also led to interest by media members in working with him to raise awareness about this fraudulent behavior.

Minton is now using his skills for entrepreneurial endeavors outside the agency. Susan Miller takes his place as chief investigator. She was previously a real estate broker and has worked for TREC the past seven years. Her last role before Minton's retirement was deputy chief investigator.