58-year-old Rita Ortiz accused of recording millions in bogus liens to cloud titles
A 58-year-old Los Angeles woman was arrested Feb. 26 on suspicion of filing false documents after investigators say she recorded fraudulent mechanic liens totaling millions of dollars on properties across multiple jurisdictions.
Rita Ortiz, who authorities say controls Ortiz Consulting LLC, was taken into custody.
The investigation began in 2025 after several property owners reported suspicious mechanic liens recorded against their titles. The liens claimed extraordinary sums — some as high as $24.64 million — for alleged cleaning or consulting services that were never performed.
Detectives determined Ortiz was responsible for recording the documents. Affected properties include multiple locations in the city of Los Angeles, with additional victims identified in Beverly Hills and Riverside County.
Ortiz is described as operating as a self-proclaimed real estate consultant and business coach specializing in property sales, investments, leasing, short sales and loan modifications. Authorities say she may have solicited clients through a nonprofit called “Make Your Dreams Come True.” She is not licensed by the California Department of Real Estate to provide any real estate services.
The case remains under investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the LAPD Commercial Crimes Division at (213) 486-6620