August 27, 2023 – San Diego County Sheriff's Department officials report that a man and woman are in custody on charges of embezzling more than $1 million from a real estate firm which owns an apartment complex in the 2800 block of Camino Del Mar in Del Mar. The woman worked for the real estate firm for more than 25 years and her employment was terminated in 2021.

The theft was first reported in late 2021 to the North Coastal Sheriff's Station. The Sheriff's Fraud/Elder Abuse Unit conducted the investigation. During the investigation, it was discovered the former property manager manipulated the company's accounting records to cover the misappropriated funds.

Julie Blease (DOB 6/6/1970) was arrested on August 23, 2023, at her home in the City of San Diego. She was booked at the Vista Detention Facility on charges of embezzlement, identity theft, forgery, and money laundering with a white-collar crime enhancement. Colin Miller (DOB 08/29/1966) was arrested on August 24, 2023, in the City of Poway. He was booked at the Vista Detention Facility on charges of grand theft, identity theft, forgery, and money laundering with a white-collar crime enhancement. The enhancement increases the penalty for felony fraud cases. 

Source: San Diego County Sheriff's Department