A Missouri man has pleaded guilty to fraudulently obtaining more than $1.2 million in mortgage loans by submitting false applications and using stolen personal information. Edward James Mitchell Jr., also known as Musa Muhammad, admitted to one count of bank fraud in a U.S. District Court hearing in St. Louis.
Between October 2021 and November 2023, Mitchell participated in four fraudulent home mortgage transactions, totaling $1,225,550. Three properties were located in St. Louis, and one in Florissant.
Mitchell, through his company Home Team Solutions LLC, purchased the homes and later resold them with falsified documentation. In two instances, he impersonated a relative to buy properties using that person’s Social Security number and birthdate. Mitchell also submitted false information regarding employment and financial status on the loan applications.
Mitchell purchased one home for himself and sold another to his paramour, both transactions carried out with fraudulent documents. The U.S. Attorney’s Office reported that Fannie Mae ultimately acquired the loans, and lending institutions lost approximately $490,946. Mitchell disputes the total, claiming only $226,950 was lost.
The bank fraud charge Mitchell faces carries a maximum penalty of up to 30 years in prison, a $1 million fine, or both. Sentencing is set for July 8.
Mitchell legally changed his name to Musa Muhammad in October 2023.
