Goodnough Appears in Criminal Court
Goodnough appeared in Schenectady City Court for a hearing in People v. Goodnough. This case involves allegations that Goodnough fraudulently induced Mr. White into signing a purported deed, unlawfully transferring ownership of Mr. White’s property.
Compounding the issue, Goodnough is accused of subsequently selling the property immediately, further complicating Mr. White's efforts to reclaim his rightful ownership. In addition to the criminal proceedings, Mr. White has initiated a civil lawsuit against Goodnough and the subsequent buyers to address these alleged fraudulent actions and seeks justice.
Joseph Michael Goodnough Faces Grand Larceny Charge
Joseph Michael Goodnough made a brief appearance in Schenectady City Court as criminal legal proceedings in his case continue. Deed theft and property fraud are serious crimes that erode trust in real estate transactions and disproportionately harm vulnerable individuals. Ensuring thorough investigations and accountability is vital to protecting property owners' rights and fostering a sense of justice and security within the community.
News Channel 13 Investigates another case of Deed Fraud in Rensselaer County
Kumi Tucker investigates another case where Goodnough scammed two brothers in Rensselaer County. Sottile Law PLLC, James F. Sottile, Esq. intervened to ensure this family regained their home and received financial compensation.
Schoharie County man battles deed theft
Cobleskill, N.Y. (WNYT) – David White got a knock on his Cobleskill door in Schoharie County. He said Joseph Goodnough asked about buying the house.
White found out he was on a foreclosure list. Over time, they had discussions.
Con Artist Arrested For Trying To Steal A Man’s House, Police Say
The fresh charges, highlighting the growing problem of deed theft, grew out of lawsuit filed by Albany’s Sottile Law Firm
ALBANY, NY — A Rensselaer County man was arrested this week for allegedly trying to steal a man’s house — charges that were only made possible after an Albany law firm uncovered the plot.
Joseph Michael Goodnough was arrested for grand larceny in the second degree after State Police say he fraudulently induced David White to sign over the deed to his home, without his knowledge or consent, thereby unlawfully transferring property.
The arrest came after Albany lawyer James F. Sottile secured a civil judgement against Mr. Goodnough in a separate case. The judgment confirmed Goodnough had unlawfully manipulated victims into relinquishing their homes through fraudulent means. Sottile also represents Mr. White, whose civil case is ongoing.
While New York Attorney General has made strides in securing convictions for deed theft in New York City, Sottile expressed concern about the growth of this unscrupulous and unlawful practice in upstate New York, where the housing supply is limited, and home values are quickly rising.
“This problem is spreading to the Capital Region,” Sottile said. “With the inventory of available homes so low, unscrupulous scammers are resorting to untenable and illegal measures to secure property."
Deed or title theft occurs when a fraudster illegally transfers the ownership of a property from the rightful owner to themselves typically by forging documents such as the deed. They may also take advantage where the rightful owner is elderly, ill, or otherwise unable to actively manage their property and is likely behind on their property taxes and in danger of foreclosure.
The White and Donnelly civil cases were a critical turning point in exposing Goodnough’s illegal practices, ultimately leading to his arrest and the pursuit of criminal charges. It also served as an example of how important it is for victims to fight back against fraud, especially in cases where the legal system is often overwhelmed by the complexity and scale of such crimes.
David White said he was relieved that Mr. Goodnough had been arrested, but the experience has been “devastating—physically, emotionally, and mentally.”
“To think that someone could so callously steal your home is unimaginable,” White said. “In a small town like Cobleskill I never imagined this could happen.” He expressed his gratitude for Sottile and praised his “tireless efforts in seeking justice for me.” “Mr. Sottile has never backed down, even when the odds seemed impossible,” White said. “His dedication has been nothing short of incredible.”
In the Donnelly case, Sottile secured $100,000 in punitive damages against Goodnough, but the most significant victory was ensuring Mr. Donnelly got title to his house back.
"I am happy that justice will finally be served," Donnelly said. "This should serve as a warning to others to prevent them from hurting more people."
Sottile Law PLLC Secures Victory in Upstate, NY Deed Theft Case, Delivering Justice for Two Brothers
Donnelly v. Goodnough centers around allegations of title fraud concerning real property in Stephentown, NY.
Defendant, Goodnough filed a fraudulent deed to unlawfully claim ownership of the property.
The victory was not only a restoration of justice for the Donnelly brothers but also a resounding message against fraud and coercion. The court awarded $100,000 in punitive damages to the plaintiffs, underscoring the egregious nature of Goodnough’s actions.
The case outlined a pattern of fraudulent actions by Goodnough, including the coercion of vulnerable individuals.
This case highlights Sottile Law PLLC's expertise in combating deed theft and protecting the rights of property owners. The firm’s tireless advocacy ensured not only the rightful ownership of the property but also significant financial restitution, setting a powerful precedent in the fight against title fraud.
Court Declares Fraudulently Induced Deed Voidable
James F. Sottile, Esq. represents the plaintiff in White v. Goodnough et al., a case involving allegations of fraudulent inducement in the transfer of property. The court found that Joseph Michael Goodnough had fraudulently coerced the plaintiff into signing a deed, rendering the transaction voidable under the law.
This ruling underscores Sottile Law PLLC’s commitment to protecting the rights of individuals targeted by fraudulent schemes and highlights the firm’s dedication to ensuring justice in cases of deed theft and property fraud.
Goodnough sold the property to subsequent purchasers. This development has introduced additional challenge. Ongoing litigation is pending in Schoharie County Supreme Court. Sottile Law PLLC remains steadfast in pursuing justice and ensuring rightful ownership is restored.
If you believe you are a victim of deed theft, don’t wait—contact our firm today at (518) 227-0032 for experienced legal assistance. Additional valuable resources can also be found on the New York State Attorney General's website