Midland Police Arrest Man in Alleged Real Estate Fraud Scheme

Courtney Darrell Lister charged with multiple felonies for forged property deeds and fraudulent sales.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:36pm

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An extreme close-up of a forged property deed document, the paper's texture and ink details dramatically illuminated by a harsh flash against a dark background, conceptually representing the investigation into real estate fraud.A recent wave of real estate fraud in Midland exposes the need for caution and due diligence when making property investments.Midland Today

Midland police have arrested a 50-year-old man, Courtney Darrell Lister, on four felony charges related to an alleged real estate fraud scheme. Lister is accused of advertising properties online as investment opportunities, preparing forged documents to sell properties he did not own, and accepting cash payments from victims at local businesses rather than title companies.

Why it matters

Real estate fraud can have devastating financial and emotional impacts on victims, especially those seeking investment properties. This case highlights the need for vigilance and proper due diligence when engaging in real estate transactions to avoid falling prey to scams.

The details

According to police, Lister is charged with tampering with government records, forgery, theft, and real property theft, all second-degree felonies. The Midland Police Department's Financial Crimes Unit received multiple reports in March and April of the fraudulent real estate sales scheme. Investigators say the suspects would meet victims at local businesses, have documents notarized outside the presence of the signatories, and then pass along the forged deeds.

  • On April 13, 2026, Lister was arrested around 7:30 p.m.
  • On April 14, 2026, arrest warrants were obtained for two additional suspects identified in the investigation.

The players

Courtney Darrell Lister

A 50-year-old man arrested and charged with four felonies related to the alleged real estate fraud scheme.

Midland Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the real estate fraud case and made the arrest of Courtney Darrell Lister.

Midland County Central Detention Center

The jail where Lister is being held on a $250,000 bond.

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What they’re saying

“Properties in Midland were advertised as investment opportunities online. The suspects prepared fraudulent documents to sell the properties, which they did not own, and accepted cash payment for forged documents such as property deeds.”

— Midland Police Department

What’s next

The investigation is ongoing, and police have obtained arrest warrants for two additional suspects. Potential victims of similar schemes are encouraged to contact the Midland Police Department Financial Crimes Squad.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of thoroughly vetting any real estate investment opportunities and only working with reputable title companies and real estate professionals to avoid falling victim to fraud. Vigilance is key when making significant financial transactions.