Police: Mishawaka Realtor charged with burglary

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Posted: 6:22 PM Aug 20, 2008
Last Updated: 12:37 PM Aug 21, 2008
Reporter: Sarah Platt
Email Address: sarah.platt@wndu.com

109 comments

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A Mishawaka Realtor is charged with burglary at a home on St. Joseph County’s west side. Police say 45-year-old Jonathan Niemiec used his Realtor access key to get into the home on Saturday.

The home is also owned by a local police officer. For privacy reasons, they asked NewsCenter 16 not to say what department the officer is from.

The homeowners are in the process of selling their home. They've moved out, but still have some valuables inside. They happened to be driving by when they saw Niemiec loading their belongings into a truck.

Re/Max 100 says Niemiec is innocent and thought he was cleaning out a foreclosed home, but investigators say the suspect knew what he was doing.

NewsCenter 16 spoke with the homeowner Wednesday. He asked that his face not be shown on camera. A few days have passed since the burglary, but he says his family still feels violated.

"I was stunned to find out that he was an actual Realtor. I never would have thought that a Realtor would use his card to gain access to steal stuff," says the homeowner.

Police say 45-year-old Jonathan Niemiec entered the home with his friend. Police reports indicate that the friend was under the impression they were clearing items from a foreclosed home. Officers ended up letting that man go, but arrested Niemiec.

Niemiec's employer, Re/Max 100 of Mishawaka, says he's innocent.

Marsha Lambright, Broker/Owner Re/Max 100, released this statement to NewsCenter 16: "I was greatly concerned to hear of the accusation made against Jon Niemiec, an independent contractor associated with my office. Jon has been a Realtor in good standing for over seven years. We believe that Jon has been wrongly accused and that the charges against him will be dropped. We take our responsibility as Realtors very seriously and do not take this accusation lightly."

But the homeowners say they have no doubt Niemiec knew he was in the wrong. “We couldn't get an answer from him as to why our stuff was in the back of the truck," says the homeowner.

NewsCenter 16 also spoke with the homeowners’ primary Realtor. She says the suspect never asked for her permission to enter the home. She also adds that her records show he also entered the home Thursday with his key card.

The family says they're missing some belongings and they think those things might have been taken Thursday.

St. Joseph County Police say this appears to be an isolated incident.

Re/Max 100 officials say Niemiec is not with the company right now and they've disabled his key card.

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Posted by: Indy Location: South Bend on Jan 14, 2009 at 02:52 PM
It looks like Jon was cleared

Posted by: j Location: j on Dec 29, 2008 at 04:20 AM
You people are all the same. Backgrounds checks won't due anything, and if u ask me So many hippocrits! I dislike how you angels bash felons. Oh don't put us to work, but you'll sure take our money! How sweet. I bet this guy probably should have had his stuff out days before. If he was convicted for the same thing well hmmm bad decision.....

Posted by: Anonymous Location: South Bend on Sep 2, 2008 at 10:20 AM
The story says Jon is no longer with Re/max 100 and his key has been de activated. I know who this guy is and I seen him going into the side employee entrance last week, so he must still be with Re/max 100, but hopefully his key is not active. I do beleive you are innocent until proven guilty, but since he has been charged and awaiting trial, I would not trust this man. He must be pretty special to still be backed by Re/max 100. To do business you need a active key, so he must be using someone elses key and that is against the rules. What's really going on?

Posted by: Dan Location: South Bend on Aug 30, 2008 at 11:36 PM
This guy was caught red handed and could not explain why he had the items in the back of his truck! He is guilty and will either plea guilty or be found guilty in trial! He was caught, and no one should slam remax 100 for his stupidity.

Posted by: R Location: Elkhart on Aug 28, 2008 at 09:17 AM
The guy had better be grateful that an off duty MPD detective wasn't driving by when this all happened. He might be in the morgue.

Posted by: Verity Chastain on Aug 27, 2008 at 06:40 PM
It matters not one whit if the house was in foreclosure or anything else, an unauthorized individual was caught red handed with someone elses property. The mere fact this man had the items and entered the residence without permission says it all, guilty, guilty, guilty.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 27, 2008 at 04:27 PM
I agree with "T"... It's not the fault of the company, it's the individual who committed the act. If hes found guilty, then he should be sued and go to prison, leave the company alone, it's not their fault.

Posted by: T Location: South Bend on Aug 26, 2008 at 11:55 PM
To Nicole. Schools, Employers, Businesses do background checks on people but a clean record could show up and a person committ the unthinkable the next day. What if you had a business and you thought you had the perfect employee, and that employee robbed you or someone, stole from you or someone, or worse raped or killed you or someone, would you want to take the heat for your employee.....I do not think so. Jon may work for Re/max but he was not as far as we know scheduled to show the home, clean it out or be at that home as a realtor respresenting a buyer or seller. If he went up to Marsha and asked her if it would be ok to use his keypad so he and a friend could take items from a home, do you think she would have said oh sure jon that will be ok, I will take the heat for you, I do not think so. She owns a business not a babysitting service. In time we will all know if our comments are correct, but the blame still lies with one person JON.

Posted by: Kathy Location: Granger on Aug 26, 2008 at 04:00 PM
You have only heard one side of the story--shame on those who would condemn this person before knowing all the FACTS! I can tell you from firsthand experience that ReMax 100 has some of the hardest working agents I have ever known! I believe the "truth" will come out in this situation and that the agent will be completely exonerated. What a shame to condemn a person before knowing all the facts, last time I checked, our system of justice is supposed to be "Innocent Until Proven Guilty", not the other way around. As for Marsha standing behind this agent, I commend her for doing so!

Posted by: Nicole Location: Stevensville on Aug 26, 2008 at 02:38 PM
to T: So if a teacher ad a school molests your child we shouldn't hold the school responsabile for not checking backgrounds etc? Im sorry but if someone acting on a companies behalf while on working hours committs a crime then the company does hold some part of the liability! If this had nothing to do with his job, was off hours time etc then ok, they shouldn't have anything to do with it. But he was acting on behalf of Remax while he commited the crime, therefore they are liable for his actions to a point as well.

Posted by: Ken Location: Granger on Aug 25, 2008 at 05:52 PM
Well, read all your blogs and after working for the banks doing foreclosures for years, I have never seen a house with a realtor keybox on it prior to the home being trashed out. Put the blame where it should be. Let the law do their job. Shame on you for going after ReMax and the owner for what a grown, independent contractor with no prior convictions did? Did you stop using the post office when a postal employee went in and killed his fellow workers? What are your thinking?

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 25, 2008 at 02:59 PM
ooooooh, he finally got caught

Posted by: Sue Location: South Bend on Aug 25, 2008 at 09:03 AM
Been looking for a new realtor. I know now what company NOT to go with and will tell others the same!

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 24, 2008 at 12:30 PM
Let's ask that Jon N hold a press conference to clear his name.

Posted by: KS Location: Elkhart County on Aug 24, 2008 at 11:33 AM
Just because someone is attempting to do a short sale does not mean they have mis-managed their money! You can do a short sale for hundreds of reasons. Maybe you had a medical situation and now have high medical bills/loans. Maybe you or a spouse was laid off from your job. Or more common lately is someone owes more on their house than it's currently worth on the market. Which is the case with this person and their home.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 23, 2008 at 07:42 PM
Oh so now we know why the policeman didn't want his name mentioned! He didn't manage his money and got into trouble. So, that's the reason for the short sale. It would only be fair that WNDU respected the privacy of others too. As far as Marsha--she should have said nothing or better yet--I have no comment, the police are conducting an investigation and facts will be released at a later time. Thank you. Instead, she got defensive and spoke to soon. She was not diplomatic. Desperate people do desperate things.

Posted by: KS Location: Elkhart County on Aug 23, 2008 at 06:14 PM
I personally know the home owner who this happened to. Just because the house is subject to a short sale is really meaningless. It hasn't sold at the sheriff sale YET, therefore no one would be hired to do the trash out. If someone hired John to do the trash out, then why haven't they stepped up and cleared his name? If he was given a foreclosure property directly from a bank to list himself, it would be HIGHLY unlikely that he would be doing his own trash out. It's against the rules. And I would think that if John was hired to do a trash out on a LISTED property, he would've contacted the current listing agent. And while I do believe John to be guilty, I think everyone slamming Marsha should be realistic. If you owned a company and were in her position with a situation like this, what else would you say to the media? She's being diplomatic - most business owners would be. I don't work for her company, never have. But it seems ridiculous to attack her and her whole company.

Posted by: A Location: South Bend on Aug 23, 2008 at 02:19 PM
Here is some comments on comments stated here...the house was a short sale which means it was one step away from being foreclosed on...the long and the short of it with a short sale means the owners owe the bank money and the bank is willing to work with them on getting it sold...and just in case anyone cares to know the property for sale had/has garbage all over the yard along with inside photos of an empty house..so there actually is no kitchen table to leave money on for the renting of the stuff:) Hope WNDU will display positive comments along with the negative ones!

Posted by: Rod Location: Mishawaka on Aug 23, 2008 at 01:22 PM
Ive known John for 20 years and just talked to him yesterday.I like John, he's a fun guy but trouble finds him.He says he is innocent but i don't believe him.John has battled drugs alcohol and gambling for years.

Posted by: Slade Location: Mishawaka on Aug 23, 2008 at 11:49 AM
WNDU was not the only one to publish this story. I read about it in the newspapers.As for Marsha Lambright, it seems to me she was caught with her pants down...judging from her statement defending this guy. However, I doubt very seriously that this was the first time she had her pants down to sell a house.

Posted by: Scott Location: South Bend on Aug 22, 2008 at 08:00 PM
Renee i only speak of what i know and am quite aware of the rules thank you, before YOU speak or defend do some homework, and as far as his day is concerned, it's right around the corner!

Posted by: LOL Location: Mishawaka on Aug 22, 2008 at 04:43 PM
Mike at 10:20am are you kidding me? When he is found innocent? Do you know him? He might be able to finigle his way out but I garenty he is anything but innocent!

Posted by: Media should think twice Location: Michiana on Aug 22, 2008 at 12:16 PM
I can't wait to see how many REALTORS drop their advertising from these media outlets that run stories on supposedly crooked agents, and how much better FSBO is. The market is terrible, etc... Perhaps the agents should put their money in places that won't slam them.

Posted by: Ann Location: Granger on Aug 22, 2008 at 10:56 AM
Shame on WNDU for not telling both sides of this story. I have done business with Marsha and Re/Max 100 and have always felt they acted in the most professional manner. I will continue to give them my business. Marsha has been doing business in this commuity a very long time and people who know her know her integrity.

Posted by: m-mike Location: sb on Aug 22, 2008 at 10:20 AM
10:07 Yes I mispelled a word or two and that happins when I type fast because I am upset with what some of you are saying about the RealtorS in our community, so I am sorry. I am glad that there are people like you that will tell us all when were wrong in your mind. I am not a great keyboarder just upset. Sorry, there is a good word. I wonder if it will be on this site when Jon is found to be innocent? Incase I mispelled any words "SORRY"

Posted by: T Location: South Bend on Aug 22, 2008 at 10:01 AM
Come on folks, this is not Marsha's fault, Re/Max's fault, or any other realtors fault, it is the fault of Jon himself. He may work for Marsha and Re/max 100, but they can not be held responsible for a wrong that was committed by someone who works for them. There has been police officers, doctors, firefighters, elected officials, teachers, coaches , and more mess up and it was not there bosses fault.The only one responsible for this is Jon himself, and he should be man enough to fess up and take responsibility so Marsha, Re/max and realtors can get back the respect they deserve. He has tarnished the real estate profession, just like Bob Culp did the SBPD, and they took alot of heat and bounced back, and so will the realtors of St. Joe County. Do the right thing Jon, it may help your sentence.

Posted by: Someone who cares Location: South Bend on Aug 22, 2008 at 09:30 AM
WOW! Anonymous aug 21 at 8:24 pm! What an idiot you are! First of all you have NO idea of proper etiquette for REALTORS. What misunderstanding can there be for taking someone else's property? The home was NOT in foreclosure. He sure didn't have a reason for the items in his truck when the police stopped him. And another thing ~ "WE ALL KNOW THAT A VACANT HOUSE NEEDS NO PERMISSION FOR A SHOWING BY A LICENSED REALTOR" Where the heck did you EVER hear this? You OBVIOUSLY have no idea what you're talking about!!!! Maybe you should get a Real Estate license so you can know the rules. Every home has specific showing instructions. Good job on your ignorance. Here's your sign...

Posted by: m-mike Location: sb on Aug 22, 2008 at 08:37 AM
What a joke!Looking at what has been said about this story is ridicules. The problem with these sites is it give people with no clue on what thier talking about a chance to prove it. You're trying to slam a profession of good hard working people. Remember every profession has some bad apples and I am not saying Jon is one. Most of what I have seen have no idea of what really happined in this situation. I am sure there is more to come. I even see some-one has even slandered another Realtor by name on this site (shame on you wndu) Where is thr privacy here?. A lot of you uniformed people need to Look up a Indiana Real Estate law site before speeking on this one.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 22, 2008 at 07:07 AM
It is very disturbing that so many people are so quick to judge with very little information.

Posted by: dave Location: sb on Aug 21, 2008 at 11:38 PM
after reading all of these comments, I think the person called "M" is Marcia!

Posted by: Renee on Aug 21, 2008 at 11:18 PM
By the way, I think it is very interesting that WNDU is the only news source running this story. Perhaps it's because facts cannot be verified??? This man's whole career is at stake. Maybe they are cautious to run ficticious 'news'.

Posted by: Renee Location: South Bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 11:06 PM
Scott - You really need to wise up and learn before you speak. It is illegal for realtors to get kickbacks OF ANY KIND from any service provider. If you know of any kickbacks, please report them to HUD, otherwise, quit accusing.

Posted by: Elementary Location: South Bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 10:16 PM
Yea don't jump to conclusions about stealing. He was just renting the stuff, i heard he left money on the kitchen table. Keep up the good work Marsha i also wish more people were like you, maybe this county can get its roads fixed with all their realtors criminal fines!

Posted by: to m-mike Location: cantspellland on Aug 21, 2008 at 10:07 PM
c'mon dude"hay" and uniformed? Get a clue and you might get people to listen to you

Posted by: Ed Location: Mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 09:35 PM
America growing up and learning manners please, you got a better chance of winning lottery and you don't even play. Welcome to the 21st century. Just as America is doomed so is Jon and Marsha! Deal with it, you steal you pay, there shouldn't be any misunderstanding with that people, theft is theft. What you think he just renting the stuff he was taking? Let me guess he left money on the kitchen table. Reality folks;;; thieves don't deserve their side of the story! Yea Marsha keep up the good work you've assembled yourself some real talent.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Granger on Aug 21, 2008 at 09:27 PM
I am ashamed of the community and of WNDU. I have lost a lot of respect for the station after reading the bias in this story as well as allowing so many negative comments about REMAX 100 and Realtors. There is definitely another side to this story & I cannot wait for WNDU to air/print THAT story. Marsha would never allow a realtor affiliated with her office to behave in such a way. Realtors must follow a specific code of ethics as well as complete additional training to earn the certification. People should not allow such distasteful media coverage and overreactions to change their opinion of Realtors.

Posted by: Lee Location: South Bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 09:24 PM
Shame on you Anonymous at 8:24 pm. Just because a home may show as vacant on the MLS (Which very few realtors show just for security purposes) does NOT give other realtors a license to take, a.k.a. STEAL, things from the home. And while a vacant home does not require permission from the listing agent to enter, it is a common courtesy for an agent to call the listing agent before entry. I am glad I didn't list with a Remax office. I heard another Remax office bounced commission checks. They need much more oversight than they are getting. It sounds like their agents have no direction. I feel sorry for anyone who has their home listed currently with this firm..... I also heard they do tours of new homes listed. Glad it isn't mine.

Posted by: jim Location: mish on Aug 21, 2008 at 09:13 PM
hey m-mike - you need to get your facts straight. Yes convicted felons can get a realtor license in Indiana. If the licensee applicant does not check the box that he is a felon - chances are that they will check it. If you check the box - you have to write a letter to the commission expkaining the circumstances and they will make a decision to license you or not. What's funny - there is a felon whose name was mentioned in these blogs that did not check the box. How do you like them apples Mike!

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 21, 2008 at 08:59 PM
Heh heh heh. Heh heh heh. Homeowners.

Posted by: MD Location: south bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 08:54 PM
I can only laugh at hearing this. I knew this guy was a total scumbag. I hope he gets what he deserves.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 21, 2008 at 08:24 PM
Shame on everyone. What a bunch of elementary students. Including you WNDU. You should really hear both sides of the story before blame is put on anyone. This is America. Grow up and learn some manners. Lets not jump to any conclusions before we get to the judge and jury. I'm sure this will end up being a big misunderstanding and apologies will be heard. Shame on you listing realtor. We all know that a vacant house needs no permission for a showing by a licensed realtor. You are just making yourself look bad. Good job Marsha for sticking up for your realtors. I wish more people were like you.

Posted by: Hector Location: Edwardsburg on Aug 21, 2008 at 08:03 PM
Hey if your gonna do a insurance scam just hire a Remax 100 agent. I think that's good billboard material. Scum bags!

Posted by: m-mike Location: sb on Aug 21, 2008 at 06:54 PM
Hay Jim! Known(convicted) felons can't get Real Estate licenses. Just another case of uniformed people talking out of the wrong end!!

Posted by: m Location: sb on Aug 21, 2008 at 06:40 PM
To Bill; yes it's more comon than you think we have a number of Realtors that in this slow economy have taken other jobs to make ends meet, some are doing home clean outs and more often than not the listing agent hires someone else to do that. Real Estate agents need to make ends meat too. Yes we get paid a commission just like doctors, lawyers, office workers, bank tellers ect.. that is our paycheck and we have large expences to pay as a Realtor PLUS GAS. Most Realtor don't make the money some people think, were just trying to make a living in our profession of choice. For the most part we are very hard working and caring people that just want to make a living, but as you can see from todays coments some people have noting better to do but complain and speek bad about a profession they know nothing about.

Posted by: Bill Location: Mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 05:54 PM
Question for all of you. Is it common practice for a realtor to remove things from a home? I would think that would be the first thing to answer. And being he wasn't the listing realtor, can he even do that if it is normal? I wouldn't think that is normal at all. So any realtor can take items from a home for sale? Someone enlighten me please.

Posted by: Joe schmoe Location: South Bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 04:55 PM
Using a Realtor access card is as subtle as spray painting your name, address and telephone number on the walls inside the home. He has been in the business 7 years, he knows that his professional information is recorded when he accessed the home. Calling the listing agent is a courtesy not a requirement on a vacant home. I find it hard to beleive he was robbing the place unless he is just an idiot.

Posted by: M Location: SB on Aug 21, 2008 at 04:14 PM
WOW'what a shame and how wrong this story is, I am a Realtor and have had some deals with Jon and he is not the person all you uniformed mob like people make him out to be.I don't work for Re/max and have been a Realtor for 17 years and the things some of you are saying is sickning. This story is just 24 hrs. old we all will here alot more about it. I hope all you will be back on this site with better thoughts if he is found to be INNOCENT.PLUS A APOLOGY!

Posted by: Joe Location: Mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 04:10 PM
Rolecki what FSBO truly means is I'm a cheap idiot that just saved thousands doing a job that monkeys are capable of. The word you forgot is LAZY! Which i'm sure your quite familiar with.

Posted by: For Sale By Owner Location: mish on Aug 21, 2008 at 04:09 PM
Leave this guy alone. He made a mistake. ha ha ha, Great job Mishawaka and St. Joseph County Police.

Posted by: ts on Aug 21, 2008 at 03:49 PM
sorry gina, but yes they are.

Posted by: Patti Location: South Bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 03:41 PM
Anyone who knows Marsha knows she would not tolerate any illegal or unethical behavior; likewise, she would support her staff if they be falsely accused. It appears that a great deal of information is yet to be revealed.

Posted by: Renee on Aug 21, 2008 at 03:37 PM
There are so many misconceptions here. First of all, REALTORs are independent contractors. They run their own business. Jon is NOT employed by RE/MAX. He holds his license there. That's it. It is sad that this happened and apparently no one knows the answers yet, but to hear others say they will not use a real estate agent anymore is crazy. So, you're going to sell FSBO and let any stranger in??? Jon used his keypad. He knows full & well that his info is traceable. That's what makes me think that Jon wasn't stealing. He knew 100% that his access info would be recorded when he entered the house. Also, Marsha's evidence is signed paperwork she has regarding this transaction. You don't know the details, either, Larry. There are things you don't know. REALTORs are robbers just as much as you can say Police are robbers. Come on. Anyone can rob. With the housing market the way it is at this moment your BEST BET is to work with a REALTOR. Quit freaking out.

Posted by: Me Location: SB on Aug 21, 2008 at 03:28 PM
You are right Larry. The house is not in foreclosure yet. At this stage however, even if the owner gets full price the bank will not get all the money the owner borrowed. This is called a "short sale" I wonder whom will lose more money? Will it be the owner of the property? Which I understand could have been bought at a garage sale for maybe ten dollars? Or the poor bank who loaned the home owner the money. If the owner can not afford to pay for this home how is he able to afford the home he or she is now living in? The pictures on line would appear that the house is vacant. I saw no furniture or belongings in any of the pictures. Are you sure it was the Realtor or the "friend whose truck they were in that put the property in the truck.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 21, 2008 at 03:19 PM
just 2 words everyone should pay very close attention to when selling a home (VIDEO CAMERA'S)press RECORD

Posted by: Gina Location: Mishawka on Aug 21, 2008 at 03:10 PM
I bought my home through the Finnagan Home Team through ReMax and they were the best ever. Remember they are not part of the ReMax 100 team so not all ReMax offices are bad. Thanks so much Cathy!!!

Posted by: barry Location: south bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 03:07 PM
right or wrong i do not know but to assume anything is also wrong. this will not help agents or police. people do walk away from homes when they get forclosed on contents and all. the bank wants everyhing out so it can sell the home. we need agents we need our police someone is right someone is wrong we will know soon. to assume all agents and police are theives are liable remarks. be careful what you say or do not know.

Posted by: ts on Aug 21, 2008 at 02:52 PM
sorry to burst your bubble larry, buts that not how WNDU gets there stories. they sit by a scanner and listen for a interesting arrest and run with it. they never research anything and usually have 1/2 truths.

Posted by: geoff Location: sb on Aug 21, 2008 at 02:47 PM
Wow! Marcia defends him at the beginnig of the article saying he is innocent. At the end it says he is currently not with ReMax and his key pass has been disabled. Humm...Did you know that when a realtor wants to show a home he/she has to call the listing agent which was not done. Do you think the friend who thought he was cleaning out a house with was actually the fall guy if the owner wouldn't have driven by his house?

Posted by: ts on Aug 21, 2008 at 02:43 PM
WNDU falls for it everytime. no investigation of the facts. do a little research on the police officer to see if he is telling the truth. based on prev. police officers and real estate deals, i am a little skeptical on the allegations being made against this man. And finally to report a story like this and keep the persons identity private is a insult of the intelligence of any news agency!!!!

Posted by: Larry Location: SB on Aug 21, 2008 at 02:23 PM
Well "M" at1:47pm feel free to go to the County Police and request a copy of the case. It should be a public record. Which, by the way is how the media got the report. I know the Officer in this case and NO the house was not in foreclosure. It was up for sale. As far as the 2 cops who are now realtors..last I checked they have not been convicted of anything. Yet. I personally have no problems with realtors but I do take offense to Marcia defending him to the point she says he's innocent without one iota of evidence. Her statement should have read, "We will let the investigation continue and let justice run its course".

Posted by: Conrad Location: South Bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 02:14 PM
Ya that cop is disgruntled because they are losing their house and are trying to turn the tables on someone else...

Posted by: Im Not Scared Location: Mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 02:09 PM
Give Jon A break!!! How about Sarah Platt asking the other side of the story...Jon is no Thief.

Posted by: dg Location: Mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 02:06 PM
Hay T how do you know were he lived? I dont apriciate your comment about "times getting tough for realtors" If you new Jon, then you know it is not because he is a realtor. He is just a scamer!

Posted by: sb on Aug 21, 2008 at 01:54 PM
Not surprising. This guy is a real creep! Realtors are supposed to be professionals, and are to follow a strict Code of Ethics. For every creep like him there are a hundred honest,good professional Realtors out there. To Anonymous 11:04 :It's narrow minded people like you that are to be pitied!

Posted by: Dog Patch Location: Mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 01:50 PM
Hay T, how do you know? Did you use to go to the partys on Pine Road?

Posted by: M Location: South Bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 01:47 PM
I am amazed by the crazy comments and the belief that all news articles are true and full of correct facts. The beginning of the article says: Police: which would indicate to me that police reported it to the news agency. Do you not think that the article was initiated by the police and a little skewed to their co-worker?? Could the house have been robbed by a Realtor?? Certainly, just like a house can and has been robbed by any profession. Foreclosures are many times put in the hands of Realtors for clean out and if this was the case then there would be paperwork. The officer who owned the home needed privacy because his house was or was not in foreclosure??? I was a Realtor for years and I will say that although there are unscrupulous people in the business that Marcia Lambright in the past has run a pretty tight ship. The state licensing runs a check only for felonies as with many industries. Two officers recently removed from their position due to theft are Realtor/Inspector.

Posted by: john doe Location: South Bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 01:46 PM
What do expect it’s a ReMax office! ReMax was at one time known for having top agents and they did this by recruiting agents that have been doing real estate for a long time, during this their model was little to no training, support or supervision. In today’s world you have many newer agents with no supervision or the older agents having to actual work to make money. Like some in our world they decide to take the easy way out and steal especially when there is no supervision. ReMax is the worst to use because they normally do bank foreclosed homes which leaves little to no money to them so they steal. I WILL NOT EVER USE REMAX and if my agent lets a REMAX agent into my home I will be requesting that my agents is to come along.

Posted by: Dog Patch Location: Mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 01:26 PM
Pretty Boy Jon, not looking so pretty!

Posted by: roleki Location: mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 01:25 PM
LOL, knee-jerk reactions itt. I have to laugh every time I see one of those "For Sale By Owner" signs in someone's yard. The sign really says "I'm a cheap idiot who isn't very serious about selling this house." PROFESSIONAL realtors exist for a reason - they would not be around if their expertise was not a necessary complement to transactions in the housing industry. In this housing market, a good realtor is worth his weight in gold, and I'm glad we went with the best - Re/Max

Posted by: 4Uers Location: Mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 01:19 PM
This report doesn't make 100% sense! I can't believe a real estate agent would use their access key & ROB a house. The access key records the agent & time they are there for recording purposes. There is clearly more to this story than reported here. I'll wait to hear both sides before passing judgement and everyone else should too! SHAME ON YOU - what happen to innocent till proven guilty? Just because you read it in the news doesn't make it true. It's definately not the entire story.

Posted by: KG Location: South Bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 01:13 PM
What is the commission split on stolen merchandise these days?

Posted by: Joe Location: Mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 12:59 PM
For Sale By Owner! Learn it, live it, love it!

Posted by: T Location: South Bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 12:35 PM
Yes he is related to the person convicted in the embezzlement of that bank on the west side years ago. He used to go to Washington High School and he used to live on Pine Road at his parents' house. Times must be getting tough for realtors because the banks aren't giving away money anymore. I hope they stop lending to people with bad credit because the neighborhoods start to spruce up as the thugletts' parent is forced to move. We have them moving out all the time now and it is surprising to see the difference once these people that should be renting are out of the neighborhood.

Posted by: sickened Location: south bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 12:26 PM
There are alot of great agents out there who are honest people. I hope everyone doesnt let this 1 crook ruin it for the rest.(and no, i'm not a realtor nor am i related to any!) Saying you wont use a realtor now is mob mentality. That would be like having a dishonest pastor and saying you arent going to church anymore. And I think we all know there is something fishy with ms. lambright defending him. Splitting the money are we??

Posted by: ts on Aug 21, 2008 at 12:17 PM
realtor, you sure theres only " one low life?" i think there are plenty to go @.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 21, 2008 at 12:04 PM
I find it totally unprofessional that the realtors posting to this site are putting down an entire real estate office because of one individual's illegal actions. As far as I'm concerned, you are ALL greedy thieves and your total lack of professionalism is evidenced by your posts. You are ALL focused on just one thing...your commission check. To hell with any personal ethics.

Posted by: jim Location: mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 11:58 AM
jon is the son of the guy who embezzeled money from that west side bank. it was actually his grandparents bank. remax 100 has a couple of known felons that work for her. believe me, this isn't the first time jon has stolen stuff out of a house (ex:baseball card collection)

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 21, 2008 at 11:52 AM
Jon was my realtor and I liked him. That's to bad, I planned on going through him again in the future. I even sent him referrals. He was a real nice guy though.

Posted by: ARealtor Location: South Bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 11:51 AM
Gee, the policeman said it so it must be true! 1 crooked cop doesn't make all cops bad; yet 1 Realtor's mistake can make all Agents bad? What simple mindedness!!!!

Posted by: Bill Location: Mish. on Aug 21, 2008 at 11:29 AM
Times are tough in the real estate business.Also WNDU You couldn't wait to release the names of the cops who shot the bank robber. Why is this guy so special.

Posted by: Just Wondering... Location: Mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 11:28 AM
I thought MLS listings would advise anyone (especially realtors) if a home was in foreclosure or not. The agent would be privy to this info and if they weren't sure, wouldn't he have been able to ASK someone the status?? We purchased a foreclosed house and items that were a part of the home (iron railings and screens)were removed sometime between the time we first saw the home and made the offer to closing. Mysteriously, no one at the agency knew who would have taken the items that were obviously part of the house -- and there was no way to be compensated for them, either. Wish I would have taken them when I saw the house as they were permanent fixtures for the home, but silly me thought that they would be there at closing.

Posted by: Brett Location: south bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 11:27 AM
Very classy...All of these agents from other offices using this to make themselves look better. I know the market is down right now but c'mon. Anything for a buck. Every single one of you know this could have been someone in your office which you had no control of. How would you feel being judged by the actions of someone else when you do your own job to the best of your ability?

Posted by: A Location: Mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 11:18 AM
It is interesting that everyone is quick to join the witch hunt but slow to consider there may be two sides to every story. I bought my house with Re/max 100 a fews years ago and had nothing short of a great experience with my agent. Tarnishing an entire company based off of the media's version of a story is quite narrow minded indeed!

Posted by: Sad Society Location: SB on Aug 21, 2008 at 11:18 AM
What has happened to our society? Now the realtors are stealing from customers. I'm sure this isn't the first time something like this has happened. What do we have to do nowadays - install cameras in all our rooms - have the real estate company liable for any lost, damaged or stolen property, and on and on. TO REALTOR @ 10:04: I'm sorry this "irates" you. Think how we feel being victimized. It's like any other business - there are good ones and then there are bad ones. Not too long ago cops were being bashed because of one or two. Guess it's your turn in the barrel.

Posted by: calm down Location: Mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 11:17 AM
to the self rightous Remax Realtor that says to hold that office responsible..give me a break. Remax100 is the most outstanding Remax office in the area with the best Realtors. Don't let one bad apple taint the whole office. They have on whole the best quality of Realtors in that office. No office is perfect, always bad apples everywhere, but come on people..lots of great people everywhere. they are number 1 for a reason. And no, i'm not a Realtor there.

Posted by: Steve Location: South Bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 11:08 AM
While your looking into Realtor crimes with that office take a strong look at at referral kickbacks, you will all love those results, you can bet that!

Posted by: Local Agent Location: South Bend Ind. on Aug 21, 2008 at 10:59 AM
Hang on a second everyone!!! Please remember that in the Michiana Area there are several Remax offices,which are owned by different people. Don't Hate Remax!!!

Posted by: Jill on Aug 21, 2008 at 10:53 AM
Whatever happaened to being innocent until proven guilty!

Posted by: Brett Location: south bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 10:43 AM
I have worked with many agents at Remax 100 in the past and in my opinion they have some of the best agents in the business. Guilty or not, there is now way any company can control the actions of every employee. (The police force is a great example.) I thing its wrong and narrow minded to pass judgement on all Remax agents due to the actions of one employee.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 21, 2008 at 10:30 AM
Anonymous on Aug 21, 2008 at 07:18 AM I agree, I guess there is a first time for everything. Since there is a police report and charges will be filed it will be a matter of public record.

Posted by: No Remax For Me on Aug 21, 2008 at 10:29 AM
I have to agree with Kristi, chances are this isn't the first time--he just caught. When I get ready to sell my home and rental properties there will be no key box at all!

Posted by: Realtor Location: South Bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 10:04 AM
Please keep in mind this was done by a realtor with Re/max 100, not any other Re/max office. Hold that office and this man responsible,not all real estate agents, and other Re/max offices. This irates me to pieces because all of us other realtors will now be scrutinized because of the actions of 1 low life realtor. On behalf of all realtors I ask that the public to stand by us, and let all of us continue to provide the real estate services for our community without being judged by the actions of another. Just keep in mind who this is, and the company he reresents, those are the ones you need to stay away from. Thank you.

Posted by: Becky Location: South Bend on Aug 21, 2008 at 09:47 AM
And this is not suprising from that office. Not at all.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 21, 2008 at 09:14 AM
Is he related to the Niemiec that embezzled all of the money from that small west side bank years ago?

Posted by: jon Location: claypool on Aug 21, 2008 at 09:07 AM
too bad wndu can not extend the privacy courtesy to everybody.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Mishawaka on Aug 21, 2008 at 08:30 AM
Marsha Lambright, Broker/Owner Re/Max 100 and Jonathan Niemiec robbing people. I will not sale RE/Max anymore.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Mish on Aug 21, 2008 at 07:28 AM
Remax & Niemiec ROB all the time. Just like scrapers...Sad....

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 21, 2008 at 07:18 AM
I am suprised that the media respected the homeowner's wishes and did not display his name. usually the media jumps all over a firefighter or police officer, no matter what the circumstances are.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 21, 2008 at 06:18 AM
Dear Jon, The house wasn't in foreclosure by the way i read the article. They were selling the house. And were moving. That was just the reason he gave for taking their stuff when he got caught.

Posted by: Anon Location: Indiana on Aug 21, 2008 at 12:50 AM
Wow! I thought about selling my house and going through a realtor, but I guess I will sell it myself now. I don't want to come home and find some of my things missing.

Posted by: Kristi Location: Mishawaka on Aug 20, 2008 at 11:07 PM
I know him and I'm not surprised by this. As a matter of fact, I would bet this isn't the first time he did this, just the first time he was caught.

Posted by: South Bend Location: Indiana on Aug 20, 2008 at 11:05 PM
Thats funny cause I no for a fact another man that works for REMAX did the same thing to us .But the police did'nt do nothing about it when we call to make a report.This is so freaking weird. O well he is not the first and wont be the last

Posted by: john Location: buchanan on Aug 20, 2008 at 10:58 PM
go Remax....quality employees. if you cant sell a house .... rob it.... can we taser him like the 14 yr old kid at Central????

Posted by: Anon on Aug 20, 2008 at 10:54 PM
When's the last time anyone heard of a realtor cleaning out a foreclosed house? I would think they'd hire a private contractor for that.

Posted by: J on Aug 20, 2008 at 10:21 PM
i foreclosed homes for years for local reators and never had any paper work. There was lots of houses that had many things left in them and we always removed them (my times the realtors kept these items) and if someone asked what we were doing we would just say house is being foreclosed on. WHY would this guy use his key card that could idenify him and have people asking why he was there during the time the house was robbed? Would that not be like leaving your business card behind?

Posted by: Get Real on Aug 20, 2008 at 10:19 PM
Oh, he works for ReMax but he's an independent contractor. Nice try lady. He's a THIEF. Plain and simple. For sale by owner is the only way to go. Way too many crooks out there and he is one. I know the market is slow but for Christ sake get a second job. I hope he does time for this and BRAVO that he was caught in the act. I bet he didn't know what to say when he was confronted. NICE TRY LOSER!!

Posted by: Jill Location: Granger on Aug 20, 2008 at 09:32 PM
Marsha, How can you say he is innocent without knowing the facts. It makes you look guiltly as well. Are you?

Posted by: Jan Location: Granger on Aug 20, 2008 at 09:24 PM
Don't we already know that realtors are thieves? 6% commission to list/sell your home and most don't have a clue about homes. All realtors do is open the door- you make the decision. Anybody can shop the MLS from home, but a realtor only adds unnecessary costs to a home's price! BOYCOTT REALTORS!!

Posted by: ts on Aug 20, 2008 at 09:14 PM
since when did wndu start trying to protect anyones privacy? must be a new thing they just started.

Posted by: Steve-O on Aug 20, 2008 at 08:36 PM
What a stupid MORON. This is pathetic, but yet unique. When I was a cop on the beat, I never heard of this. I will not use Remax again for any services. This will probably make MSN (national news) by tomorrow or tonight.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 20, 2008 at 08:11 PM
When we bought our home the realtor we had done buissness with thought it was ok to leave the key box hanging from our front door 2 months after we closed and had moved in. I changed the locks and cut it off the door and sure enough they showed up 3 days later looking for it, hey once I close its my house, dont leave your lockbox with my keys in it on my door...I suggest anyone selling a house that unless the home is allready empty I wouldnt let them place a lockbox on the door its a pain to be there to let people in ect, but its better then getting ripped off and after all these things arent that hard to break into took me about 2 1/2 minute

Posted by: Brad Location: South Bend on Aug 20, 2008 at 07:58 PM
Make that company pay!!!!! There might just be a God afterall....

Posted by: Frank Location: SB on Aug 20, 2008 at 07:57 PM
I think a few warning shots should have been fired first, right in his head. What the heck was the Real Estate agent thinking?

Posted by: No Key Box on Aug 20, 2008 at 07:54 PM
Hey folks, this isn't the first time realtors steal stuff. In the past they used keyboxes and couldn't be tracked. They often will list your home and leave garage doors unlocked, doors open and yes things come up missing--but they won't own up to it. This guy wasn't cleaning out a foreclosed home--it wasn't his listing so what the heck was he doing? Stealing! The housing market is slow---so why not steal? As For Marsha Lambright, well she has some real shining stars in her office Not. Why is making excuses? To cover her own rearend. She should have said I don't why he was there and it will be investigated. I would have respected her more. But she is lying as well.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 20, 2008 at 07:50 PM
do realtors need background checks?

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 20, 2008 at 07:16 PM
He's lieing.I don't believe the realtor was cleaning because he thought it was a foreclosed home., and the only reason his company is sticking up for him is so they don't get a bad rep and sued. He;s guilty. He got caught this time. How many times has he done this before. His company should of have had some documentation or something if it was indeed to be cleaned out for forclosure. Maybe there were more involved in this scam.

Posted by: wow on Aug 20, 2008 at 06:57 PM
there should be a law to get all relators a manatory background check..

Posted by: John Location: SB on Aug 20, 2008 at 06:28 PM
Guess that realtor is out of the question for me. Marsh must not screen her "independent contractors".

Posted by: Larry Location: SB on Aug 20, 2008 at 06:04 PM
So Marsha Lambright says he is innocent. Wonder if she or her company ever ran a criminal background check on Jon. Bet they'd be surprised.