OCMBC President Arrested After Deadly Crash

The president of OCMBC has been arrested after allegedly killing an elderly man while driving under the influence.

Serene Rosenberg, known in the mortgage industry as Serene Vernon, has been put on administrative leave, the company announced in a press release.

John Hamel, former Chief Capital Markets Officer, has assumed the permanent role of President.

The move is intended to ensure “stability and operational excellence” at the mortgage lender and servicer.

Rosenberg was arrested in Orange County, California, after she collided with a passenger van while allegedly driving while intoxicated. The van’s driver survived, but the passenger, Melvin Joseph Weibel, 88, of Dana Point, died.

Officials say Rosenberg has three prior convictions. She’s charged with murder and “DUI Causing Injury.”

OCMBC leaders expressed sympathy to the victims of this tragedy and assured their unwavering commitment to clients, partners, and employees.

“This has been a difficult time for everyone affected by this tragic event, and our hearts go out to those impacted,” said Rabi Aziz, OCMBC CEO. “I have full confidence in John Hamel and our experienced leadership team to guide the company forward while upholding our standards of excellence and dedication to our clients and partners.”

“Our leadership team is well-positioned to navigate this transition effectively and will continue to uphold the integrity and reliability that our clients expect,” Hamel added.

OCMBC, which also does business as LoanStream Mortgage, Lending Pros, Forward Mortgage, and Jet Alliance Mortgage, is the nation’s second-largest non-QM lender and eighth-largest wholesaler.

Last year, it acquired HomeStar Financial Corporation, expanding the company’s footprint nationwide.