Outpouring of support for San Mateo veteran who lost home to foreclosure
SAN MATEO, Calif. (KGO) -- There's an outpouring of support Tuesday night for a Vietnam War Purple Heart recipient who lost his home of 42 years to foreclosure.
Minutes after the story aired on ABC7 News, the calls started coming in to the family.
The San Mateo County District Attorney's Office and Adult Protective Services have begun to look into the case. Unfortunately, that won't be enough to save the family's home.
As much as he tries, it's tough to move on for Robert Sexton. Emotions are still raw just hours after the family gave up the keys to their long time home in San Mateo.
Robert paid some $20,000 to various people and companies offering to help save his family's home. He says none of what he spent that money on was helpful.
Despite all that, this cancer patient remains thankful after publicizing his plight on ABC7 News.
His daughter, Lianna, explains what happened after the story aired. "We started getting calls right away," she said.
The family received both financial assistance and help with the move.
A former neighbor called to rent the Sextons a duplex just minutes from the family's old home.
Robert's wife, Dolores, is overwhelmed by the generosity. "We have so many good friends and so many good neighbors," she said.
Others suggested the family pursue criminal and civil action. 7 On Your Side put them in touch with Adult Protective Services and the agency is working with the district attorney on possible criminal action.
"We're looking at them for criminal fraud, real estate fraud, elder abuse and whether there has been any consumer fraud," San Mateo County DA Steve Wagstaffe said.
At the beginning of the day, the family was hopeful authorities could obtain an emergency order to stay the foreclosure. But Wagstaffe says, unfortunately, it's much too late for that.
Robert regrets he didn't reach out for help earlier, but Kiala Sexton says it's not his grandpa's fault.
The 16-year-old says, one day, he'll buy the home back. "Because I want the memories back from there," he said.
The family says they're ready to move on. They still have their dog buddy and they have each other.
"With my family, any place feels like home. As long as we're together," Dolores said.
7 On Your Side will continue to follow this story and keep you posted. The DA says it's possible the family could win restitution.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the Sextons get back on their feet. Click here if you'd like to help.
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