Houston Home Deed Transferred in Fraud Scheme
Authorities charged two people in a case involving the illegal transfer of a Houston resident's property for just $10.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Residential
In a case detailed by investigators in December 2025, a Houston home owned by 87-year-old Jenny Hitt was transferred to Malik Thomas for $10 under alleged fraudulent circumstances. The property, located on Glen Echo Drive, had been in the owner's possession since 1988.
Why it matters
Property owners should remain vigilant regarding power of attorney documents and official home records, as these instruments can be manipulated to misappropriate long-held assets. This incident underscores the risks of allowing unauthorized individuals access to sensitive household financial records.
The property on Glen Echo Drive was transferred for a recorded price of $10, despite the owner having held the home since 1988. This official record of the transaction remains the subject of criminal charges brought against the involved parties.
The players
Jenny Hitt
An 87-year-old Houston homeowner whose property on Glen Echo Drive was transferred to others.
Tiffany Thomas
The individual charged with felony counts related to the fraudulent transfer of property.
Malik Thomas
The recipient of the home deed transfer currently facing felony charges regarding the transaction.
The details
Tiffany Thomas allegedly gained access to the home by impersonating a Harris County inspector, using a vehicle with a county inspector sticker to appear legitimate. Investigators state she later secured power of attorney from the homeowner while she was hospitalized, using those documents to facilitate the deed transfer to Malik Thomas. The transaction involved a forged notary signature on the warranty deed to finalize the unauthorized change in property ownership.
Timeline
1988: Jenny Hitt took ownership of the home.
October 2025: Thomas allegedly claimed to be a county inspector.
November 2025: Hitt was hospitalized following a fall.
December 2025: A Houston police detective interviewed Thomas.
Money Landscape
This case reflects a documented trend of property deed fraud, following patterns established during the 2025 Harris County deed fraud investigation. It marks a departure from typical real estate transactions by highlighting how easily titles can be compromised without owner consent.
Property owners should periodically check their county's deed records to ensure no unauthorized changes have been filed. Always consult with a qualified attorney before signing over power of attorney or any documents that affect property rights.
The takeaway
Deed fraud exploits vulnerability during personal crises, often bypassing traditional safeguards through forged documentation. Homeowners should maintain strict control over legal paperwork and consult a qualified tax or legal professional to review any property-related instruments.
Further reading
For more on securing your home title and avoiding scams, visit Residential.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Cool Down.
