TalesFromFlorida.com Exclusive
NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FL—Move over, Wolf of Wall Street, because Florida just birthed its own legend: the Sweatpants Sultan of Scams. Meet Julius Bruggeman, the 76-year-old former condo president who allegedly embezzled $1 million from his neighbors—and spent it on the most Florida Man shopping spree imaginable.
The Ultimate HOA Power Move
Bruggeman didn’t just steal money—he flexed it. While his neighbors were paying their dues, he was out here living his best life, splurging on:
– Designer sneakers (because nothing says “trustworthy condo president” like fresh Jordans).
– Gourmet coffee (probably sipped while cackling over bank statements).
– Therapeutic socks (for all those long nights… of fraud).
– Acne cream (because even white-collar criminals get breakouts).
But the real kicker? He allegedly bought flat-screen TVs and kitchen appliances for residents—then charged them for the “repairs” and pocketed the cash. That’s like a reverse Robin Hood: steal from the HOA, give to yourself.
The Great Escape (But Not Really)
When investigators came knocking, Bruggeman had already pulled a midnight flop-house flee, leaving his condo completely empty—except, we assume, for the lingering scent of regret and maybe a stray therapeutic sock.
Now, the Volusia Sheriff’s Office believes he’s hiding out in Portland, Oregon, which raises so many questions:
– Is he blending in with hipsters, sipping artisanal coffee he didn’t embezzle?
– Did he trade his Florida sweatpants for flannel?
– Will he start a podcast about his crimes titled “Condo Kingpin Confessions”?
The Aftermath: Fees Double, Neighbors Fume
Thanks to Bruggeman’s alleged decade-long spending spree, residents now have to pay double in HOA fees. One neighbor summed it up perfectly: “He’s literally taking money right out of their pockets.”
And let’s not forget the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, which fined the HOA $20,000 for letting this happen. Because nothing says “justice” like punishing the victims twice.
Final Thoughts
If you see a 76-year-old man in Oregon wearing designer sneakers and chugging gourmet coffee while muttering about “HOA bylaws,” call the cops.
But honestly? This guy deserves his own Florida-themed true crime series. Working title: “The Condo Con: How One Man Scammed Retirees Out of Their Savings… for Acne Cream.”
Stay shady, Florida. 🍊