US Man Linked to Singapore Rental Fraud Sues Landlord
Anthony Thomas Price faces legal scrutiny for using shell companies to avoid rental payments.
1Systematic Rental Payment Evasion
Anthony Thomas Price, an American national, is currently under police investigation in Singapore for a recurring pattern of rental fraud. He has repeatedly utilized shell companies to secure high-end residential properties. Once in possession, he consistently stops making payments, forcing landlords into lengthy and expensive legal battles to recover their assets.
2The Lengkong Dua Case
In a recent ruling, a judge ordered Price to pay S$17,031.98 in legal costs and outstanding rent. He had rented a semi-detached house at Lengkong Dua from an elderly couple for S$7,500 monthly. After paying the initial deposit and one month of rent, his company, Noranth Ventures, ceased all further financial obligations.
3Countersuit Against Siglap Landlord
In a new development, Price has filed a countersuit against a landlord in Siglap, seeking S$20,000 in damages. He alleges that the property contained over 50 defects, which he claims negatively impacted his health and professional travel. This legal maneuver follows the landlord's initial lawsuit against him for nearly a year of unpaid rent.
4Judicial Findings on Intent
District Judge Chiah Kok Khun identified a deliberate scheme in Price’s actions, noting a clear lack of intention to pay rent. The court observed that Price uses litigation as a strategic tool to extend his unlawful occupation of premises. This pattern has now been documented across at least three different Singaporean rental properties.
5History of Financial Disputes
Price’s history of non-payment dates back to 2019, starting with a property in Jalan Selamat. In that instance, he paid only one and a half months of rent, resulting in S$27,160 in arrears. The owner eventually took legal action against Noranth Ventures, though the case was later settled and withdrawn by the parties.
6Corporate Shell Structures
The tenant frequently employs corporate entities to sign lease agreements, shielding himself from direct liability. He utilized Noranth Ventures for multiple contracts and later used Bundleluxe, a wholly owned subsidiary, to rent a property in Burnfoot Terrace. These entities appear to serve primarily as vehicles for securing housing without fulfilling financial commitments.
7Government and Police Involvement
The scale of these activities has reached the national level, with Senior Minister of State for Law Murali Pillai confirming police investigations into the matter. Addressing Parliament on November 4, the minister highlighted the government's awareness of the situation. Authorities are now scrutinizing the legality of these shell company rental schemes.
8Current Legal Status
The latest countersuit regarding the Siglap property is currently in the pre-trial stage. As Price continues to navigate the Singaporean court system, the focus remains on his history of exploiting residential rental agreements. Landlords are increasingly wary of corporate-backed leases that mirror the patterns established by Price’s previous shell company ventures.
Original article: The Independent SG — US Man Linked to Singapore Rental Fraud Sues Landlord