Title company owner faces federal fraud charges

A Mount Laurel man who authorities say scammed current and aspiring homeowners out of nearly $2 million is scheduled to appear in U.S. District Court in Philadelphia on Tuesday on charges of federal wire fraud.

Jason Bloom, 39, owner of A Great Title Co. in Marlton, is accused of keeping more than $1.7 million that was intended to pay off mortgages and other costs during property closings and refinancing settlements from 2004 through 2007, according to information filed last week.

Because Bloom allegedly failed to pay off mortgages, taxes, and related costs, authorities say homeowners, banks, and title insurance companies often were left with hefty expenses and sometimes became responsible for two mortgages. - Barbara Boyer