The Oklahoma County Clerk’s Office contacted the sheriff’s office in September after its recording department reviewed documents submitted by Antonio Moore. Staff members declined to transfer ownership, explained why the paperwork could not support the change and asked follow-up questions, the office said.

The home is about 14,000 square feet. On the same day Moore allegedly tried to file the deed, the owner went to the clerk’s office to report a possible fraud, authorities said.

The homeowner later received a call from the homeowners association saying someone had tried to enter the gated community while claiming to have inherited the property. The owner also reported receiving mail addressed to Moore and learning that electric service had been switched into Moore’s name. A bank then called to say Moore was attempting to take out a loan against the home, according to authorities.

Investigators said Moore returned to the clerk’s office twice more. He was arrested on complaints of counterfeiting and forgery. The allegations have not been established in court.

Oklahoma County Sheriff Tommie Johnson III warned homeowners that deed fraud may go unnoticed until bills or other notices arrive. People often focus on the risk of a break-in, he said, rather than someone trying to take ownership of their home.

Johnson said a successful fraudulent deed transfer can leave homeowners facing a lengthy legal dispute and costs including fines and fees.