Pair obtained $2.7 million in mortgage fraud scheme

East Haven, Conn. (WTNH) - Two people were sentenced for their part in a mortgage fraud scheme out of New Haven county.

Andrea J. Palmucci, 50, of East Haven, was sentenced to two years of probation, the first eight months of which must spend in home confinement for her role in the scheme. She was also ordered to perform 200 hours of community service.

From June 2006 to October 2007, Palmucci was employed by ATZ Realty, which was owned and operated by Abdelghany Antar. The two conspired to purchase 11 properties in New Haven County under Palmucci's name. As part of the conspiracy, Antar and Palmucci made false statements to various mortgage lenders, including statements about Palmucci's income, assets, liabilities, employment, and intention to occupy the home as a primary residence.

In addition, the deposits and down payments for the properties were paid out of bank accounts in Palmucci's name with funds owned and controlled by Antar.

After the closings, Palmucci quitclaimed the properties back to Antar or to entities that Antar owned or controlled.

Antar paid Palmucci a few thousand dollars for each home she purchased.

The pair obtained approximately $2.759 million in fraudulent mortgages. All of the properties they purchased have been foreclosed on, or are currently in foreclosure.

On May 24, Palmucci waived her right to indictment and pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

On July 19, Antar waived his right to indictment and pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud stemming both from this scheme and a separate $2 million mortgage fraud scheme he committed.

On October 7, Judge Droney sentenced Antar to 37 months of imprisonment.

A hearing to determine the amount of restitution that Antar and Palmucci will be ordered to pay is scheduled for January 5, 2012.

This case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant US Attorney David T. Huang.