Irvine, California-based mortgage company OCMBC has put its president on administrative leave after she was charged with murder and driving under the influence Friday.
Serene Vernon, who has been president of the lender for six years, was driving when she collided with another vehicle in Dana Point, resulting in the death of 88-year-old Melvin Joseph Weibel. Weibel was a passenger in the other vehicle, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Department.
Vernon had three prior convictions and was arrested at the scene. According to court records obtained by American Banker, Vernon pleaded guilty to driving under the influence in 2010 and was put on three years’ probation. In 2012, she was sentenced to 90 days in jail and treatment programs after pleading guilty to child abuse and endangerment and driving under the influence.
OCMBC said that following Friday’s events, former Chief Capital Markets Officer John Hamel has assumed the role of president. Hamel joined OCMBC two years ago, according to his personal LinkedIn.
“This has been a difficult time for everyone affected by this tragic event, and our hearts go out to those impacted,” said CEO Rabi Aziz in a prepared statement. “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.”
OCMBC said that it remains fully operational with no expected disruptions to service. Scotsman Guide ranks OCMBC as the No. 2 non-qualified-mortgage lender, which is a lender that serves borrowers who don’t meet traditional lending requirements.
A spokesperson for OCMBC had no further comment beyond the press release.