Real estate scam artist sought

WYOMING, Mich. (WOOD) - A man with a history of scamming people is believed to be posing as a real estate broker and collecting down payments for property he doesn't own.

Norman Long, 60, allegedly took deposits for property in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas recently. Investigators said he's collected thousands of dollars from people, and they believe he is still in the area trying to set up more home sales meetings with unwitting clients.

Long was last seen driving a stolen 1999 white Astro van with a dealer plate. He is described at 5'11", 195 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes.

Target 8 Investigators reported in 2008 on Long's foreclosure rescue scheme that was costing owners their homes.

In another Target 8 Investigation in 2005, Long was associated with a big, local real estate investor Brian VanFarowe . Last year VanFarowe fled the country for India after he was charged with mortgage fraud.

If you know anything about this, you're asked to call the Wyoming PD at 616.530.7300, or Silent Observer at 616.774.2345.