Florida Officer Accused of Stealing Deceased Man's Home

Investigators in Florida have accused a police officer of orchestrating a scheme to take control of a $400,000 home after finding its owner dead. Lauderhill police officer Brian Sguros faces five felony charges, including official misconduct and criminal use of deceased personal identification.

Authorities allege that Sguros found Dennis West dead in his Lauderhill home during a welfare check in August 2022. Less than a month later, Sguros claimed possession of the property, stating his intention was to prevent squatters. According to court documents, Sguros then spent the next 2 1/2 years impersonating West, using his identification to pay property taxes and obtain permits for extensive repairs. He reportedly spent over $200,000 of his own money on renovations, citing the home's dilapidated state, including a collapsed roof and significant trash.

Investigators with the Broward County Sheriff's Office stated that Sguros' deception began when he informed the county medical examiner that he was friends with West, who died of natural causes, and that the man had no family. Sguros allegedly used his access to law enforcement databases to gather information about West. He paid the home's taxes and utilities under West's name and forged his signature to secure necessary permits for the repairs.

Sguros' actions came to light in February 2025, when he filed paperwork with the county appraiser asserting his possession of the home. The scheme unraveled further when a real estate group subsequently acquired deeds to the property from West's relatives. Sguros then initiated a civil lawsuit against the real estate company, seeking reimbursement for his repair expenses.

Sguros, who has been suspended from his position, appeared in court Wednesday. He has not commented on the charges.