ASHEVILLE, N.C. — A 19-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly defrauding apartments, car dealerships, and local charities in a scheme that spanned multiple months.
Authorities said Masieuh Morgan was taken into custody on Saturday, Jan. 3, on Long Shoals Road following a lengthy investigation by the Asheville Police Department (APD). He was arrested on 25 felony warrants, including charges of obtaining property by false pretense, computer access violations, conspiracy, and possession of a stolen firearm.
Detective Aaron Buyanovsky explained that Morgan first came to police attention last summer as the leaseholder at an apartment linked to a fugitive murder investigation. Officers discovered the lease information was fraudulent, prompting further investigation.
The probe revealed that Morgan had defrauded multiple apartments, car dealerships, and nonprofits, including Eblen Charities and Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM).
Documents show that Morgan falsified rental assistance applications to obtain funds. In March 2025, he received $2,251.77 from Eblen Charities, and in May, another $3,473.97. In December 2024, he received $2,400 from ABCCM, claiming he needed help to avoid homelessness, despite maintaining multiple residences.
Investigators said Morgan would then advertise the fraudulently obtained apartments for sale on social media. Victims often paid him via cash or apps, only to later discover the properties were obtained under false pretenses, leaving them evicted or facing repossessions.
Buyanovsky said the total amount stolen is estimated in the thousands, possibly tens of thousands of dollars, and victims are scattered throughout Asheville and surrounding areas.
Morgan is currently held at the Buncombe County Detention Center. Authorities said the investigation is ongoing and additional charges are expected.
