Wayne County Sheriff Warren Evans has stopped all foreclosure sales because there is no way to know which homes are covered under TARP, the Troubled Asset Relief Program passed by Congress which supercedes Michigan foreclosure law.

Last week Evans sent a letter to Michigan's Gov. Jennifer Granholm requesting she declare a state of emergency in Wayne County to address the growing home foreclosure crisis.

Today Evans announced that to proceed with sales not knowing whether the homeowner has had an opportunity to modify their loan would put him in a position of violating federal law. Hard to say whether he can legally do this or not.

Evans says his office will work with both homeowners facing foreclosure and their lenders to ensure they are able to exercise their rights according to the law. Additionally, he's urging sheriffs throughout Michigan to join the foreclosure moratorium.

If you or someone you know is having difficulty making their mortgage payment, visit the Wayne County Mortgage Prevention Program's website for guidance and assistance.

photo credit: respres