Two Cousins Plead Guilty in $8.5 Million Rental Fraud Scheme

The pair used fake identities to list properties on platforms including Airbnb and Vrbo. They admitted to overbooking the same properties and canceling reservations at the last minute with false excuses, such as maintenance issues, to retain higher-paying bookings.

Federal authorities stated that the men targeted customers through bait-and-switch tactics. The investigation revealed that the fraud allegedly targeted black customers, though the defendants did not admit to allegations of racial discrimination.

Legal Proceedings

pleaded guilty to charges of wire fraud and obstruction of justice this year, following a federal probe.

admitted to using electronic communications to send false cancellation notices after securing better reservations. admitted to lying to federal agents during the 2023 investigation. Both men are awaiting sentencing hearings set for late summer 2026.

faces a maximum of 20 years in federal prison, while faces up to 10 years.

Platform Responses

“Airbnb is built on trust, and bad actors have no place in our community.”

We supported the US Attorney’s Office and the FBI throughout their investigation to help ensure those responsible are held accountable, and we are thankful for their work. The platforms were used to list the properties involved in the fraud.

The case highlights risks in online rental marketplaces, with affected customers losing vacation plans and payments.