The trial of Ana María Núñez, a 68-year-old Cuban woman with a long history of fraud in South Florida, commenced Tuesday in a Miami courtroom. This time, she faces charges of defrauding a 78-year-old woman suffering from terminal cancer in Doral. Prosecutors allege that Núñez, with the aid of her son Pablo Figueroa, preyed on the victim as her health declined, posing as her daughter to obtain a power of attorney. This allowed them to transfer the woman's home and savings.
Authorities estimate the theft amounted to over $430,000. "She befriended the victim as her health was failing and she was dying of cancer," stated Assistant State Attorney Stacy Cleveland during the hearing, describing the scheme as a deliberate exploitation of a vulnerable individual.
Legal Defense and Strategy
Despite Núñez's extensive criminal background—which includes at least 16 prior convictions for fraud and grand theft, according to the Florida Department of Corrections—this history will not be presented to the jury in this case. Her attorney, Nicholas Sconzo, claimed, "Ms. Ana Núñez committed no crime, except the crime of kindness," denying the charges of elder exploitation, fraud, and theft. Her son, Pablo Figueroa, will face trial in November.
Other Pending Cases
While Núñez is involved in this trial, she also faces multiple charges for scams conducted in recent years. In August 2024, she was arrested for defrauding a Miami barbershop owner with a fictitious investment tied to satellite sales to China. The victim handed over $105,000, believing in the promise of massive returns, but the venture was a sham.
This was not an isolated incident. In May 2022, Núñez and her son were accused of exploiting another elderly cancer patient in Doral, amassing $437,107 through fake identities and fraudulent contracts. In December 2021, she persuaded a group of investors to fund a phantom company, promising a 75% return.
A Fraudulent Past Dating Back to the 90s
Court records reveal that Núñez's involvement in fraud dates back to at least 1996. Her schemes typically involve creating fake companies, forging contracts, and manipulating vulnerable victims. On several occasions, she has vanished after receiving funds, threatening those who sought repayment.
Ongoing Investigation
The Miami-Dade Police continue their investigation and urge anyone who may have fallen victim to Núñez to come forward. Investigators suspect the actual number of victims could be significantly higher than those documented in court files.
Understanding the Fraudulent Activities of Ana María Núñez
What charges is Ana María Núñez facing in her current trial?
Núñez is facing charges of elder exploitation, fraud, and theft related to defrauding a terminally ill elderly woman in Doral.
How much money did Ana María Núñez allegedly steal from her recent victim?
Núñez is accused of stealing more than $430,000 from a terminally ill elderly woman.
What previous scams has Ana María Núñez been involved in?
Núñez has been involved in scams including defrauding a barbershop owner with a fake satellite investment and exploiting another elderly cancer patient, among others.