Ex-mortgage brokers’ trial to begin in deception case

Three former mortgage brokers whose companies generated customer complaints and lawsuits during Colorado’s housing boom will go to trial this week on civil claims that they deceived borrowers. The state is seeking at least $4 million in penalties, restitution and disgorgement from Leo Shifrin; his father, Mark Shifrin; and former partner Jerry Johnson. The men operated companies in the Denver area under various names, including Mortgage Planning and Lending Specialists and Wholesale Mortgage Lending.