Police: Home rental scam was run out of Delaware

SMYRNA, Del. (WPVI) -- Police say they have uncovered a major home rental scam, with victims across the U.S., being run out of Smyrna, Delaware.

The scam revolved around Verna L. Nowell, 63, of the 300 block of Peach Circle in Smyrna, Delaware, police say, and involved a number of others.

According to investigators, the suspects paid people in Nigeria to create fake rental ads online and then had unsuspecting renters wire them money.

Investigators say suspects stole at least $150,000, from at least 35 victims.

Under arrest are Nowell, Shirley Watson 44, of Townsend; Ronald Miles Sr., 48, of Smyrna, Ronald Miles Jr. 21, of Smyrna; Dustin C. Brennan, 21, of Smyrna; and Chase Madden, 18, of Townsend.

Active warrants are out for:

Barbara McBride, 52, of Smyrna, Delaware.

Cory Bynaker, 22, of Smyrna, Delaware.

Kimberly Draper, 37, of Clayton, Delaware.