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

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. 

MORE STORIES:

• 10-foot great white shark pinged off Florida coast near Brevard County
• Drivers terrorized in Orange County street takeover but still no arrests 
• Country Thunder Florida refunds: Where are they?
• Pulse Nightclub Memorial design moves closer to reality

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. 

STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 35 ORLANDO:

• Download the FOX Local app for breaking news alerts, the latest news headlines
• Download the FOX 35 Storm Team Weather app for weather alerts & radar
• Sign up for FOX 35's daily newsletter for the latest morning headlines
• FOX Local: Stream FOX 35 newscasts, FOX 35 News+, Central Florida Eats on your smart TV

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."