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New details released in arrest of Florida realtor accused of stealing over $1.6M from couple

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Published  December 13, 2024 9:44pm EST
Volusia County
FOX 35 Orlando

Florida realtor accused of stealing over $1.6M from couple

A Volusia County realtor is accused of orchestrating a scheme to steal over $1.6 million in property and funds from a sick client, authorities said.

The Brief

    • A Volusia County realtor, Jason Valiant, is accused of stealing over $1.6 million from a sick client by using fraudulent power of attorney documents to control their assets.
    • Authorities say Valiant spent the money on personal luxuries and ordered the client be taken off life support to gain financial control.
    • The scheme unraveled when Valiant’s girlfriend reported his plans, leading to his arrest along with an alleged accomplice, Constance Kellner.

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. - A Volusia County realtor is accused of orchestrating a scheme to steal over $1.6 million in property and funds from a sick client, authorities said. 

Jason Valiant allegedly used fraudulent documents, including a power of attorney, to gain control over his client’s assets, later spending the money on personal luxuries such as restaurants, bars, and even dental treatments, according to investigators.

The alleged scheme came to light after a traffic stop in Flagler County, where Valiant was arrested. 

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Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood described Valiant as a predator who took advantage of a vulnerable client, even allegedly ordering the client to be taken off life support in June after submitting notarized power of attorney paperwork. 

"This guy was just a shark. He was just a predator circling waiting for the minute there was blood in that water," Chitwood said. "This is pure, pure evil."

Bank records revealed that Valiant, rather than caring for his client’s estate, used the money on personal expenses, including clothing and whitening his teeth. 

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Another real estate agent, Constance Kellner, was also arrested for accessory after the fact. Investigators said the scheme unraveled when Valiant’s girlfriend reported overhearing conversations about buying the victim’s oceanfront property for personal gain.

Chitwood called the actions of those involved despicable, stating, "These scumbags, there’s a special place in hell for what they did to this couple."

The Source: Information in this story is provided to FOX 35 News by the Volusia County Sheriff's Office.

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