Story perspectives

Fake Consultant Arrested for Multimillion-Dollar Liens on Homeowners

2/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rita Ortiz, 58, was arrested in Los Angeles and faces 25 counts for false multimillion-dollar liens against Benedict Canyon Drive homeowners.
She is held on $700,000 bail.
Homeowners, including Marjorie Josaphat, dispute the liens, saying they never hired Ortiz for any services.
Ortiz claims to be a real estate consultant despite lacking the necessary licenses.
Authorities urge other victims to come forward as the LAPD and Beverly Hills Police investigate.

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Story summary

Rita Ortiz, 58, was arrested in Los Angeles and faces 25 counts for false multimillion-dollar liens against Benedict Canyon Drive homeowners.
She is held on $700,000 bail.
Homeowners, including Marjorie Josaphat, dispute the liens, saying they never hired Ortiz for any services.
Ortiz claims to be a real estate consultant despite lacking the necessary licenses.
Authorities urge other victims to come forward as the LAPD and Beverly Hills Police investigate.