An Irving real estate executive is facing a new arrest warrant following fresh accusations that surfaced while the trial for a 2023 indictment was pending.
Dozens of individuals who claim to be victims of 72-year-old Pauline Coronado gathered at the Frank Crowley Courthouse on Wednesday for a scheduled court appearance by the defendant.
Initially slated to appear at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Coronado reportedly experienced a panic attack while waiting in the courthouse cafeteria and was subsequently hospitalized after learning about the presence of alleged victims and TV cameras outside the courtroom. She was instructed to appear in court on Wednesday.
Despite more former clients being present on Wednesday, Coronado’s lawyer informed the court via email that she was under doctors’ orders to refrain from attending.
The April 2023 theft indictment implicated Coronado in alleged schemes that led to losses exceeding $300,000 for ten defendants between 2014 and 2019, although prosecutors indicated that over 60 people had filed complaints against her.
Coronado, who had been free on a $10,000 bond from the previous indictment, faces accusations of deceptive practices involving down payments and rent money in rent-to-own home transactions, according to alleged victims.
Elias Gomez and Cecilia Gonzalez shared their experiences of financial loss and disappointment, with Gomez expressing urgency for action and Gonzalez emphasizing the need for accountability.
A new theft accusation prompted the issuance of an arrest warrant for Coronado on Tuesday. Judge Brandon Birmingham ordered her to be held without bond pending a hearing, during which her bond could be increased depending on health-related considerations.
Former clients Leigh and Jim Hoofnagle recounted their legal dispute with Coronado and highlighted her alleged deceptive practices.
Despite the anticipation, all alleged victims left the courtroom without seeing Coronado, who might evade cameras by surrendering elsewhere but must eventually face Judge Brandon Birmingham in person. Attorney Dennis Croman, who represented Coronado, declined to comment.
