I have the 2002 edition of the Texas Penal Code. Other states might have similar laws on the books.

The Crime is called “Securing Execution of Document by Deception.”

See the following in part from the Penal Code:

32.46 Securing Execution of Document by Deception
(a) A person commits an offense if, with intent to defraud or harm any person, he, by deception:
(1) causes another to sign or execute any document affecting property or service or the pecuniary interest of any person; or …
(b) An offense under section (a)(1) is a:
…
(5) felony of the third degree if the value of the property, service, or pecuniary interest is $20,000 or more but less than $100,000…

(c) In this section, “deception” has the meaning assigned by section 31.01

31.01 Definitions
In this chapter:
(1) “Deception” means:

(A) creating or confirming by words or conduct a false impression of law or fact that is likely to affect the judgement of another in the transaction, and that the actor does not believe to be true;
(B) Failing to correct a false impression of law or fact that is likely to affect the judgement of another in the transaction, that the actor previously created or confirmed by words or conduct, and that the actor does not now believe to be true;
(C) Preventing another from acquiring information likely to affect his judgement in the transaction;
(D) Selling or otherwise transferring or encumbering property without disclosing a lien, security interest, adverse claim, or other legal impediment to the enjoyment of property, whether the lien, security interest, claim, or impediment is or is not valid, or is not a matter of official record; or
(E) Promising performance that is likely to affect the judgement of another in the transaction and that the actor does not intend to perform or knows will not be performed except that failure to perform the promise in issue without other evidence of intent or knowledge is not sufficient proof that the actor did not intend to perform or knew the promise would not be performed.

++++

Okay, this is food for though. Maybe it will help to think about this issue and focus the mind upon the fraud.

:evil
666 The Beast, Keeper of the Seals

I survived the fire that burned too hot, the high that was too high, the vision that was too bright, and the dreams that were only fantasy. I came crashing to the ground, but here I stand – standing.