LAPD Investigates Solar Panel Lease Scam Targeting Elderly Spanish Speakers

Los Angeles police are investigating a scheme that lured elderly residents into signing long‑term solar panel leases. The LAPD says the suspect used forged signatures and stolen identities to enroll victims. The alleged fraud targeted older people with limited computer literacy, especially Spanish speakers. The suspect pretended to sell solar panels and convinced victims to provide personal information. The suspect then used that information to sign victims up for lease agreements without their consent. The LAPD hopes to speak with additional victims to uncover the full extent of the scheme.

The scam involved long‑term solar panel lease agreements. Victims were not aware that their identities were used. The suspect forged their signatures on the lease documents. The fraudulent agreements were signed without the victims’ knowledge or consent. The LAPD says the suspect targeted individuals who were less familiar with technology. The scheme relied on deception and forged paperwork.

The suspect is named Kevin Eduardo Cristofer Esperanza. The LAPD identified him as the individual responsible for the fraud. Esperanza targeted older people with limited computer literacy. He focused on Spanish speakers in the community. The LAPD says he approached victims under the pretense of selling solar panels. He convinced them to share personal information.

The target group consisted of elderly residents. Many of them had limited computer literacy. The suspect specifically targeted Spanish speakers. The LAPD says these individuals were more vulnerable to deception. The scheme exploited the victims’ trust. The victims were unaware that their identities were being used.

The suspect approached victims pretending to sell solar panels. He convinced them to provide personal information. He used that information to sign them up for lease agreements. The lease agreements were long‑term. The victims did not consent to the agreements. The LAPD says the suspect forged the victims’ signatures.

The LAPD believes the crimes occurred between July 2021 and February 2022. The timeframe covers the period during which the fraudulent leases were signed. The suspect operated over several months. The LAPD has investigated the period for evidence. The suspect’s actions spanned multiple transactions. The investigation focuses on this timeframe.

The LAPD urges anyone who knows a victim or who may have been victimized to contact Detective Juan Campos. The department is looking for additional victims. The LAPD says it needs more information to fully understand the fraud. The department wants to confirm all affected individuals. The LAPD hopes to gather more evidence. The investigation continues.

Detective Juan Campos can be reached at 213‑486‑5995. He can also be contacted by email at [email protected]. The LAPD encourages victims to provide details of the fraudulent lease. The department will review the information received. The LAPD will follow up with victims. The contact information is provided for assistance.

A video of the investigation was broadcast on NBC4 News at 11 p.m. on December 11, 2025. The broadcast covered the LAPD’s investigation. The video presented the facts about the suspect. It highlighted the fraudulent lease agreements. The broadcast aired on a major local news channel. The video reached a wide audience.

The article was written by Helen Jeong. It was published on December 11, 2025. The article was updated on December 12, 2025 at 10:31 a.m. The update added new information. The article remains on NBC Universal, Inc. The publication date is noted in the article.

The article is tagged under LAPD. The tag indicates the subject of the investigation. The tag helps readers find related stories. It signals the LAPD’s involvement. The tag is used consistently across related articles. The article remains categorized under LAPD.

In summary, the LAPD is investigating a fraudulent solar panel lease scheme. The suspect used forged signatures and stolen identities. The victims were elderly residents with limited computer literacy. The scheme targeted Spanish speakers. The LAPD seeks additional victims to fully assess the fraud. The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who believes they have been affected is encouraged to contact the LAPD. The department will review the evidence provided. The LAPD wants to ensure all victims are identified. The department will assist in resolving the matter. The contact details are available for victims. The LAPD remains committed to the investigation.

The LAPD has identified the suspect and the timeframe of the crimes. The suspect’s name is Kevin Eduardo Cristofer Esperanza. The crimes occurred between July 2021 and February 2022. The LAPD is seeking additional victims. The investigation continues to gather evidence. The department will update the public as new information emerges.

The legal implications involve fraud and identity theft. The suspect forged signatures to enroll victims. The LAPD is investigating potential criminal charges. The department will work with prosecutors. The victims may seek restitution. The case illustrates the importance of vigilance.

The LAPD’s investigation highlights the vulnerability of elderly residents. The scheme exploited limited computer literacy and language barriers. The suspect’s actions were deceptive and illegal. The department’s outreach seeks to protect the community. The public is advised to be cautious. The LAPD will continue to pursue all leads. The investigation remains active. The article provides details for those who need to act.