Pair sentenced for mortgage fraud

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Federal authorities say a man and a woman have been sentenced for a mortgage fraud scheme in southeastern Connecticut.

The U.S. Attorney's office said 47-year-old Michael Russo of New Haven was sentenced Wednesday in Hartford to 21 months in prison.

Authorities say 28-year-old Melissa Valentin of Uncasville received an 18 month-sentence, the last half of which she must spend in home confinement.

Both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud.

Authorities say Russo, a licensed real estate sales agent in New London, was involved in the fraudulent purchase of eight properties which ended up in foreclosure, resulting in losses to lenders of more than $1.7 million.

Authorities say Valentin bought about five houses in the New London area by providing false information on mortgage loan applications.