Rental Scam Conman Sentenced to Prison
A New York City man was sentenced to prison after stealing $25,000 in a fake apartment rental scheme.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Apartments
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A 47-year-old man was sentenced to two to four years in state prison following an apartment rental scam that targeted prospective tenants. The fraud resulted in $25,000 in losses for victims who were shown units across New York City.
Why it matters
This case highlights the financial risks renters face when searching for housing through social media and informal referrals. The sentencing follows a guilty plea for grand larceny regarding fraudulent transactions that occurred throughout 2025.
Juan Valoy, 47, received a sentence of two to four years in state prison for stealing $25,000 from tenants. The criminal activity spanned from March 2025 to July 2025 across multiple city boroughs.
The players
Juan Valoy
The 47-year-old defendant who posed as a broker to orchestrate apartment rental fraud.
The details
The defendant posed as a real estate broker on Facebook Marketplace and through personal referrals to deceive potential renters. He arranged apartment tours in Washington Heights, Queens, and the Bronx to solicit funds from victims under the guise of legitimate rental deposits. He eventually pleaded guilty to one count of grand larceny in the third degree in July 2026.
Timeline
March 2025 to July 2025: The defendant conducted the rental scam.
July 2026: Juan Valoy pleaded guilty to grand larceny.
October 7, 2026: The defendant received his prison sentence.
The Home Front
The sentence reflects an ongoing enforcement priority against rental fraud in the New York City housing market. This conviction follows the established prosecution path under New York state grand larceny statutes for residential rental fraud.
Prospective tenants should verify that any individual acting as a broker is properly licensed through the state database before transferring funds. If you suspect fraudulent activity, contact the Housing & Tenant Protection Unit at 212-335-3300.
The takeaway
This case underscores the importance of only working with verified, licensed real estate professionals when searching for new housing. Renters should always avoid sending deposits via unverified digital platforms and keep the Housing & Tenant Protection Unit contact 212-335-3300 on file.
Further reading
For tips on securing a legitimate lease in the city, visit Apartments.
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Do you trust online marketplaces to find safe and legitimate rental housing in your area?
