Rita Ortiz, dubbed the "Lien Queen," pleaded not guilty Monday to 25 counts of filing false documents after prosecutors alleged she targeted Southern California homeowners with fraudulent $24 million liens. The charges stem from her alleged attempts to claim ownership of properties, including one where a family with a child now lives in fear of break-ins. Prosecutors warned Ortiz poses both a financial and physical threat to the public, citing her actions after being evicted from a Beverly Hills home where she allegedly filed a fake deed to cloud property titles. **L.A.

County District Attorney Nathan Hochman emphasized Ortiz’s actions jeopardized homeowners’ rights, stating she would be held criminally responsible and could face state prison. Her bond remains set at $700,000**, and her next court date is March 12.