Antonio Silva, 60, of Merrimack, was arrested on Dec. 27, 2025 in connection with a fraudulent real estate transaction. Courtesy photo/Merrimack Police Department

MERRIMACK – Antonio Silva, 60, of Merrimack, was taken into custody on Dec. 27, 2025 in connection with a fraudulent real estate transaction.

According to the Merrimack Police Department, in October 2024, Silva entered into a lease agreement with a tenant for a home that was being renovated. The victim reportedly signed the lease and gave Silva $5,500 to cover the security deposit and the first month’s rent.

Several months later, the renovations had not been completed and the victim contacted police. Investigators later learned that Silva did not own the home and that the real homeowner hired him to complete the renovations.

Silva has been charged with theft by deception. He was released on personal recognizance bail and is scheduled to be arraigned in Merrimack District Court on Jan. 22, 2026.

Under state law, if convicted, Silva could face up to 15 years in prison, up to five years of probation and up to $4,000 in fines.