Woman Convicted in Local Foreclosure Rescue Scam - Central Coast News KION/KCBA

SALINAS, Calif- Blanca Maciel also known as Blanca Sanchez was convicted of targeting struggling Hispanic homeowners with her foreclosure rescue scam, said the Monterey County District Attorney's Office. All but one of the people she claimed to be helping lost their home.

During an 8-day jury trial the prosecution heard from several of her victims.

" Those homeowners recounted allowing Sanchez into their homes believing her claim that she was licensed. They were then persuaded into paying her thousands of dollars on the belief that she would stop foreclosure proceedings and/or persuade their lenders to lower their monthly mortgage payments. Even after paying the initial fees, Sanchez would frequently return, asking for more money for necessary additional services, like paying "delinquent" property taxes. When the victims asked about the status of the modification, Sanchez routinely assured them that the modification was complete without providing any written corroboration. Typically, Sanchez just abandoned her victims after taking them for thousands of dollars. Some victims recalled trying to call her phone number only to be told it was disconnected. All but one of the victims lost their homes to foreclosure."

Maciel Sanchez was remanded into custody until her sentencing on October 30th. The jury found her guilty of 13 felonies Friday afternoon, she is facing 16 years in prison.