Fraud Alert: Black Brooklyn Homeowner Loses Home to Deed Theft in $5,000 Water Bill Scandal

A coalition of elected officials in New York is urging immediate action following the distressing case of Filmore Brown, a small business owner and homeowner for 32 years, who lost his residence due to a dubious $5,000 water bill from 2019. On August 15, 2025, at 12 PM, a press conference will occur outside Brown’s home at 227 East 89th Street, Brooklyn, NY, to raise awareness and advocate for systemic reform. His fully paid East Flatbush property was subject to a tax lien foreclosure initiated during the pandemic, subsequently auctioned in December 2024.Officials emphasize that the tax lien sale process prioritizes investor profits over citizens' rights. Attorney Alice Nicholson revealed that Brown was unaware of the foreclosure proceedings that culminated in the default judgments against him.Council Member Chris Banks noted the systemic issues contributing to the divestment of Black homeowners, while Assemblymember Monique Chandler-Waterman condemned the injustice of losing a home over a relatively small debt. The coalition demands a public investigation into Brown’s case and seeks legislative changes for fairness in the foreclosure process. (Photos: YouTube Screenshots)