NABI newsroom
Articles shown here are for public awareness and are by no means all inclusive. They are sourced from public records, searches, and information sent by our membership across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany.
Avoid Scams
Avoid scams in the aftermath of natural disasters
September 28, 2022
NEW 9/29/2022
As recovery efforts continue in areas hit hard by mother nature’s recent bi-coastal punch, scammers are not far behind. They see tragedy as opportunity, and they'll use the devastation caused by severe storms — like Typhoon Merbok, Hurricane Fiona, and Hurricane Ian to try to take advantage of those affected. As well as anyone who tries to help. That's why it's so important to know how to spot the scams that often follow natural disasters.
Read more >
As recovery efforts continue in areas hit hard by mother nature’s recent bi-coastal punch, scammers are not far behind. They see tragedy as opportunity, and they'll use the devastation caused by severe storms — like Typhoon Merbok, Hurricane Fiona, and Hurricane Ian to try to take advantage of those affected. As well as anyone who tries to help. That's why it's so important to know how to spot the scams that often follow natural disasters.
Read more >
ELDER FRAUD
Helping Seniors Avoid Scams
September 26, 2022
NEW 9/28/2022
Frederick is in his mid-80s, and doesn’t own a computer, smartphone, or tablet. He leads a sheltered life, and though physically active, has very few friends with whom he communicates. Recently, the Florida native was contacted through a phone call by the Publisher’s Clearinghouse (at least that is what the caller said), Frederick was told he had won their sweepstakes, and was about to be awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars. But there was a catch. He would have to pay the tax on the income before he would be awarded the money.'
Luckily, he realized the situation was suspicious and contacted the real Publishers Clearinghouse, to discover the crime. In response to the many elderly fraud victims who have been outsmarted by this scam, Publisher’s Clearinghouse established a customer service phone number (1-800-392-4190) to warn victims who receive suspicious phone calls.
According to the National Council on Aging, there are many tips to help arm potential victims. Among the advice:
More
Frederick is in his mid-80s, and doesn’t own a computer, smartphone, or tablet. He leads a sheltered life, and though physically active, has very few friends with whom he communicates. Recently, the Florida native was contacted through a phone call by the Publisher’s Clearinghouse (at least that is what the caller said), Frederick was told he had won their sweepstakes, and was about to be awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars. But there was a catch. He would have to pay the tax on the income before he would be awarded the money.'
Luckily, he realized the situation was suspicious and contacted the real Publishers Clearinghouse, to discover the crime. In response to the many elderly fraud victims who have been outsmarted by this scam, Publisher’s Clearinghouse established a customer service phone number (1-800-392-4190) to warn victims who receive suspicious phone calls.
According to the National Council on Aging, there are many tips to help arm potential victims. Among the advice:
More
Elder Fraud
I guess I was just a good target. How to protect yourself from being scammed
September 26, 2022
NEW 9/28/2022
Anyone can be a target for scammers -- and when it comes to the elderly, thieves don’t pull their punches.
Last year, those 60 years of age and older were hit for $1.7 billion dollars across the United States, according to the FBI’s Elder Fraud Report.
Scammers recently preyed on Fluharty in a fraudulent Publisher’s Clearing House scam, using pre-paid Vanilla cards to make off with over $2,500.
How can residents protect themselves?
“In this instance, it’s ok to be rude, it’s ok to not answer a call if you don’t recognize the number, or if you start talking to someone and they’re asking you for really sensitive information such as your bank account information, your date of birth, your banking information your home address, be rude, hang up the phone don’t give that information out to people you don’t know,” said US Attorney King.
The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of NC’s top tips:
https://wlos.com/news/local/older-adults-being-targeted-scammers-thousands-dollars-how-to-protect-yourself-d
Anyone can be a target for scammers -- and when it comes to the elderly, thieves don’t pull their punches.
Last year, those 60 years of age and older were hit for $1.7 billion dollars across the United States, according to the FBI’s Elder Fraud Report.
Scammers recently preyed on Fluharty in a fraudulent Publisher’s Clearing House scam, using pre-paid Vanilla cards to make off with over $2,500.
How can residents protect themselves?
“In this instance, it’s ok to be rude, it’s ok to not answer a call if you don’t recognize the number, or if you start talking to someone and they’re asking you for really sensitive information such as your bank account information, your date of birth, your banking information your home address, be rude, hang up the phone don’t give that information out to people you don’t know,” said US Attorney King.
The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of NC’s top tips:
https://wlos.com/news/local/older-adults-being-targeted-scammers-thousands-dollars-how-to-protect-yourself-d
ELDER FRAUD/ROMANCE SCAM
Man Ordered to Pay $90,000 for Role in Romance Fraud Scheme
September 20, 2022
NEW 9/25/2022
Oluwabamishe Awolesi, 29, of Beltsville, Maryland, was sentenced today to five years of federal probation, including 60 days on home detention, and ordered to pay $90,000 in restitution for receipt of stolen money.
Awolesi, a citizen of Nigeria and the United States, lived in Huntington during his involvement in the scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Awolesi, also known as Oluwabamise Johnson, admitted to his role in a romance fraud scheme that defrauded more than 200 victims, many of them elderly, of at least $2.5 million. One victim of the scheme transferred a total of $90,000 into Awolesi’s checking account in September 2018. Awolesi kept $12,000 of the total and forwarded the rest to others involved in the scheme.
To carry out the schemes alleged in the indictments, victims were often led to believe that they were in relationships with U.S. residents working abroad.
Source
Oluwabamishe Awolesi, 29, of Beltsville, Maryland, was sentenced today to five years of federal probation, including 60 days on home detention, and ordered to pay $90,000 in restitution for receipt of stolen money.
Awolesi, a citizen of Nigeria and the United States, lived in Huntington during his involvement in the scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Awolesi, also known as Oluwabamise Johnson, admitted to his role in a romance fraud scheme that defrauded more than 200 victims, many of them elderly, of at least $2.5 million. One victim of the scheme transferred a total of $90,000 into Awolesi’s checking account in September 2018. Awolesi kept $12,000 of the total and forwarded the rest to others involved in the scheme.
To carry out the schemes alleged in the indictments, victims were often led to believe that they were in relationships with U.S. residents working abroad.
Source
MONEY LAUNDERING
Man Enters Guilty Plea to Laundering Monies
September 16, 2022
NEW 09/18/2022
A New York man pleaded guilty in the Eastern District of New York to money laundering for his role as the owner and operator of a voice over internet protocol (VoIP) company that facilitated and profited from the introduction of fraudulent robocall traffic into the United States.
Jon J. Kahen, 48, of Great Neck, New York, was the owner and chief executive officer of Global Voicecom Inc. (GVI), a U.S.-based VoIP provider, from 1999 to 2020. GVI provided telecommunications services, such as calling platforms and domestic direct inward dial (DID), toll-free, and call termination services, that introduced foreign phone traffic into the U.S. telephone system (thereby serving as a so-called “gateway carrier”).
Beginning at least as early as 2016, GVI began serving as a gateway carrier for an India-based VoIP provider that used GVI’s gateway carrier services to route fraudulent robocalls – including, but not limited to, U.S. government agency imposter calls placed by individuals located in India who were fraudulently impersonating agents of the IRS, Social Security Administration, and Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General (SSA-OIG) – into the U.S. telephone system. This provider also used the DID and toll-free numbers re-leased and/or re-sold to it by GVI to facilitate various fraudulent robocall scams. U.S. consumers, including the elderly, were defrauded as a result of these scams.
By 2018, Kahen became aware that this India-based VoIP provider was using GVI’s telecommunications services to engage in unlawful activities (e.g., wire fraud involving fraudulent robocalls), and by May 2019, Kahen was aware that the funds paid to GVI by this client for continued gateway carrier services constituted the proceeds of unlawful activities. Despite this knowledge, Kahen conducted unlawful monetary transactions involving these criminally derived funds.
“U.S. consumers, many of whom are elderly or are otherwise vulnerable, are inundated with millions of illegal robocalls every day,” …
Source
A New York man pleaded guilty in the Eastern District of New York to money laundering for his role as the owner and operator of a voice over internet protocol (VoIP) company that facilitated and profited from the introduction of fraudulent robocall traffic into the United States.
Jon J. Kahen, 48, of Great Neck, New York, was the owner and chief executive officer of Global Voicecom Inc. (GVI), a U.S.-based VoIP provider, from 1999 to 2020. GVI provided telecommunications services, such as calling platforms and domestic direct inward dial (DID), toll-free, and call termination services, that introduced foreign phone traffic into the U.S. telephone system (thereby serving as a so-called “gateway carrier”).
Beginning at least as early as 2016, GVI began serving as a gateway carrier for an India-based VoIP provider that used GVI’s gateway carrier services to route fraudulent robocalls – including, but not limited to, U.S. government agency imposter calls placed by individuals located in India who were fraudulently impersonating agents of the IRS, Social Security Administration, and Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General (SSA-OIG) – into the U.S. telephone system. This provider also used the DID and toll-free numbers re-leased and/or re-sold to it by GVI to facilitate various fraudulent robocall scams. U.S. consumers, including the elderly, were defrauded as a result of these scams.
By 2018, Kahen became aware that this India-based VoIP provider was using GVI’s telecommunications services to engage in unlawful activities (e.g., wire fraud involving fraudulent robocalls), and by May 2019, Kahen was aware that the funds paid to GVI by this client for continued gateway carrier services constituted the proceeds of unlawful activities. Despite this knowledge, Kahen conducted unlawful monetary transactions involving these criminally derived funds.
“U.S. consumers, many of whom are elderly or are otherwise vulnerable, are inundated with millions of illegal robocalls every day,” …
Source
ATM Crime
ATM skimmer who stole more than $250,000 from hundreds of debit and credit card holders, has pleaded guilty to federal crimes.
September 14, 2022
NEW 8/14/2022
A man who journeyed from Romania to Roanoke to take part in an ATM skimming case, swiping more than $250,000 from hundreds of debit and credit card holders, has pleaded guilty to federal crimes.
Source
A man who journeyed from Romania to Roanoke to take part in an ATM skimming case, swiping more than $250,000 from hundreds of debit and credit card holders, has pleaded guilty to federal crimes.
Source
HOME REPAIR FRAUD
Scammers strike when you are at your most vulnerable
September 11, 2022
NEW 9/14/2022
Scam artists, often referred to as “storm chasers,” may ask homeowners for up-front payments for water damage restoration or home repairs and then disappear without ever doing the work.
In other cases, scammers may charge exorbitant prices, charge for unnecessary repairs, or do substandard work. Sometimes scammers offer to cover the homeowner’s insurance deductible and persuade them to give fake reports to the insurance company, potentially implicating the homeowner in a case of insurance fraud.
Source
Scam artists, often referred to as “storm chasers,” may ask homeowners for up-front payments for water damage restoration or home repairs and then disappear without ever doing the work.
In other cases, scammers may charge exorbitant prices, charge for unnecessary repairs, or do substandard work. Sometimes scammers offer to cover the homeowner’s insurance deductible and persuade them to give fake reports to the insurance company, potentially implicating the homeowner in a case of insurance fraud.
Source
GRANDPARENT SCAM
FTC: $23.8 million in losses from than 12,700 complaints from people older than 60 about these types of scams. Here are some tips to avoid them
September 9, 2022
NEW 9/11/22022
While the scams are always changing, they have some common elements:
While the scams are always changing, they have some common elements:
- Impersonation of a family member
- Often, the scammer will impersonate a grandchild or other family member, saying they’re in an emergency and need cash. But sometimes, they may even impersonate a lawyer, police officer, or doctor calling on behalf of the grandchild.
- Urgent and immediate need for money
- The DCP said that scammers will usually claim to be in the hospital, jail, or stuck in a foreign country. Because they’re in an emergency, they’ll ask for money to be sent immediately.
- They often ask for the money to be wired, sent through an app, or through gift cards or other purchases. The DCP also said that scammers are now asking for the money in an envelope to be picked up at their house because it’s more difficult to trace.
- Insistence on Secrecy
- The scammer also usually pressures the victim not to tell their children or any other family member. They may also claim they don’t have time to speak or that they’ll be embarrassed if someone else in the family knows.
- Resist the urge to act immediately
- Don’t engage with the caller or the text. Call the family or grandchild directly to confirm the story.
- Don’t give out your address, personal information, or cash.
- Check your privacy settings on social media and be mindful of what information you put online.
GRANDPARENT SCAM
Thousands lost by 83-year-old in Grandparent Scam
September 7, 2022
NEW 9/10/2022
Someone allegedly claiming to be a public defender called an 83-year-old man and convinced him that his grandson had been arrested for reckless endangerment and would need to be bailed out of prison, police said in a release.
The victim subsequently gave several thousand dollars in cash to a male suspect, who police were able to get a photo of and share with the public.
Read more
Someone allegedly claiming to be a public defender called an 83-year-old man and convinced him that his grandson had been arrested for reckless endangerment and would need to be bailed out of prison, police said in a release.
The victim subsequently gave several thousand dollars in cash to a male suspect, who police were able to get a photo of and share with the public.
Read more
FINANCIAL FRAUD
Louisiana Woman Indicted for Preparing Over 110 Fraudulent PPP Loans Totaling Over $1.1 Million
September 9, 2022
NEW 9/10/2022
SHARNAE EVERY (“EVERY”), of Houston, Texas, was charged with one count of Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud.
If convicted, EVERY faces a maximum penalty of twenty years, followed by a term of supervised release for up to three years, a fine up to $250,000, or twice the gross gain to the defendant, or twice the gross loss to any victim, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, per count.
More
SHARNAE EVERY (“EVERY”), of Houston, Texas, was charged with one count of Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud.
If convicted, EVERY faces a maximum penalty of twenty years, followed by a term of supervised release for up to three years, a fine up to $250,000, or twice the gross gain to the defendant, or twice the gross loss to any victim, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, per count.
More
HOME REPAIR FRAUD
WANTED
Man wanted in Lee County, Miss. for Home Repair Fraud
August 21, 2022
NEW 9/6/2022
The Lee County Sheriff's Department [MS] is looking for Bryan Dill, who is accused of fraud.
See full article
The Lee County Sheriff's Department [MS] is looking for Bryan Dill, who is accused of fraud.
See full article
ELDER FRAUD
Two Defendants in ‘Grandparent Scam’ Network Sentenced for RICO Conspiracy Targeting Elderly Americans
September 4, 2022
NEW 9/6/2022
Despicable scammers who targeted seniors are arrested, charged, and convicted by the U.S. Justice Department. The convicted scammers are Timothy Ingram aka “Bleezy,” 30, of North Hollywood, California; and Joaquin Lopez, 46, of Hollywood, Florida. The criminals were convicted of extortion and fraud, induced elderly Americans across the United States to pay up to tens of thousands of dollars each to purportedly help their grandchild or other loved ones.
Full article
Despicable scammers who targeted seniors are arrested, charged, and convicted by the U.S. Justice Department. The convicted scammers are Timothy Ingram aka “Bleezy,” 30, of North Hollywood, California; and Joaquin Lopez, 46, of Hollywood, Florida. The criminals were convicted of extortion and fraud, induced elderly Americans across the United States to pay up to tens of thousands of dollars each to purportedly help their grandchild or other loved ones.
Full article
ROMANCE SCAM
$2.6 million in Luxury Cars, Rolex Watches Scammed Out of Unsuspecting Men
September 4, 2022
NEW 9/5/2022
A Texas woman scammed unsuspecting and trusting victims out of a total of about $2.6 million through an organized internet-based 'romance scams.
Dominique Golden, 31, of Houston, personally collected nearly $1.3 million in cash, checks, money orders, and wire transfers from people across the US. All the money was deposited into bank accounts opened under the names of fake people and businesses that she controlled, according to United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.
Full Article
A Texas woman scammed unsuspecting and trusting victims out of a total of about $2.6 million through an organized internet-based 'romance scams.
Dominique Golden, 31, of Houston, personally collected nearly $1.3 million in cash, checks, money orders, and wire transfers from people across the US. All the money was deposited into bank accounts opened under the names of fake people and businesses that she controlled, according to United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.
Full Article
SCAMS
Find out what scams are happening in your area
September 3, 2022
NEW 9/4/2022
Explore the FTC’s Consumer Sentinel Network data about consumer protection topics like fraud, identity theft, and unwanted calls based on millions of reports from people across the country. ...
Full Article
State and Metro Area Maps
ATM Crimes
Two arrested at Modesto ATM following statewide sting investigation of EBT fraud
September 4, 2022
|
The photo shows a fraud investigation specialist with the San Luis Obispo (CA) Police Department, demonstrating how to spot a card skimmer on an ATM, gas pump or other card reader. He also offers advice for keeping your PIN and card information safe. |
NEW 9/4/2022
Two men were arrested with skimming devices at a Modesto ATM Thursday morning as part of a statewide sting by Bank of America.
Modesto Police Detective Conner Jones said Bank of America for over two years has dealt with fraud involving Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards. The cards have magnetic stripes rather than chips, making it easier to steal their data using skimming devices, Jones said. Modesto Police spokesperson Sharon Bear said the suspects dress in vests and hard hats to appear as if they are fixing the machines. They insert ultra-thin skimming devices into the card slot and affix tiny pinhole cameras near the keypad to record people as they enter their pin numbers, she said. The stolen information is then used to create fraudulent cards, which are then used to withdraw funds from the accounts. ...
Read full article
Two men were arrested with skimming devices at a Modesto ATM Thursday morning as part of a statewide sting by Bank of America.
Modesto Police Detective Conner Jones said Bank of America for over two years has dealt with fraud involving Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards. The cards have magnetic stripes rather than chips, making it easier to steal their data using skimming devices, Jones said. Modesto Police spokesperson Sharon Bear said the suspects dress in vests and hard hats to appear as if they are fixing the machines. They insert ultra-thin skimming devices into the card slot and affix tiny pinhole cameras near the keypad to record people as they enter their pin numbers, she said. The stolen information is then used to create fraudulent cards, which are then used to withdraw funds from the accounts. ...
Read full article
HOME REPAIR FRAUD
How to know if a handyman is taking advantage of you
August 22, 2022
NEW 9/3/2022
With the rise of scams among artisans and handymen, homeowners are on their toes, thinking, "Who's next?"! These kinds of scams do not exactly have a definite pattern.
Read More:
With the rise of scams among artisans and handymen, homeowners are on their toes, thinking, "Who's next?"! These kinds of scams do not exactly have a definite pattern.
Read More:
ELDER FRAUD
Police, DA and sheriff step up outreach efforts to protect older adults from scams
August 21, 2022
NEW 9/3/2022
Hadley police, DA and sheriff step up outreach efforts to protect older adults from scams
HADLEY — Police, the Northwestern District Attorney’s office and Hampshire County sheriff are expanding efforts to prevent financial crimes and scams targeting older adults.
An alleged perpetrator, Gaurang Contractor, 38, of New Jersey, was arrested Aug. 8, the contractor allegedly claimed he was a government agent investigating identity fraud and that the victim was part of a conspiracy and must purchase $330,000 in gold from a local jeweler, and then forward this to a federal court officer, according to police.
Read More
Hadley police, DA and sheriff step up outreach efforts to protect older adults from scams
HADLEY — Police, the Northwestern District Attorney’s office and Hampshire County sheriff are expanding efforts to prevent financial crimes and scams targeting older adults.
An alleged perpetrator, Gaurang Contractor, 38, of New Jersey, was arrested Aug. 8, the contractor allegedly claimed he was a government agent investigating identity fraud and that the victim was part of a conspiracy and must purchase $330,000 in gold from a local jeweler, and then forward this to a federal court officer, according to police.
Read More
ELDER FINANCIAL FRAUD
An elderly couple’s caretaker stole $288,000. She bought a house — and prison
August 31, 2022
NEW 9/2/2022
As caretaker of a married couple in their 90s, a Tamarac woman took their money and took care of herself: the ballroom for her daughter’s wedding reception, new windows, fence and air-conditioning unit for her house, the down payment for the house itself.
#ElderFinancialFraud #ElderFraud
Read full article
As caretaker of a married couple in their 90s, a Tamarac woman took their money and took care of herself: the ballroom for her daughter’s wedding reception, new windows, fence and air-conditioning unit for her house, the down payment for the house itself.
#ElderFinancialFraud #ElderFraud
Read full article
ELDER FRAUD
Elderly couple loses nearly $700K in online scam
August 26, 2022
NEW 9/2/2022
A family said scammers were able to steal their life savings of almost $700,000 through a fake Amazon purchase and bank wire transfers.
#elderfraud #Elderscams
Full article
A family said scammers were able to steal their life savings of almost $700,000 through a fake Amazon purchase and bank wire transfers.
#elderfraud #Elderscams
Full article
INSURANCE FRAUD
Woman charged with fraud after reporting car stolen, forging title to hide lien
August 18, 2022
NEW 9/1/2022
CLARKSTON, Mich. – An Oakland County woman is facing fraud charges after she reported her car stolen and forged a title to hide that there was a lien on the vehicle in order to collect $42,000 from her insurance company, officials said.
Brittany Brown, 32, of Clarkston, is accused of filing a false insurance claim after reporting her car stolen in 2020. Authorities said she knowingly submitted a forged title to State Farm Insurance that concealed the lien on her vehicle.
Read full article
CLARKSTON, Mich. – An Oakland County woman is facing fraud charges after she reported her car stolen and forged a title to hide that there was a lien on the vehicle in order to collect $42,000 from her insurance company, officials said.
Brittany Brown, 32, of Clarkston, is accused of filing a false insurance claim after reporting her car stolen in 2020. Authorities said she knowingly submitted a forged title to State Farm Insurance that concealed the lien on her vehicle.
Read full article
SCAMS CAN HAPPEN TO ANYONE
Oregon’s attorney general said she had a close call: ‘If it could happen to me, it could happen to anyone’
August 29, 2022
NEW 9/1/2022
Oregon’s attorney general said she had a close call: ‘If it could happen to me, it could happen to anyone’
Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum received a text from her bank asking if she’d recently spent $750 at Walmart.
She hastily texted back “NO,” and almost immediately her phone rang.
Rosenblum, who’s made consumer protection a priority, spent 10 minutes on the phone.
She grew increasingly suspicious.
The caller, frustrated with her questions, hung up.
Tips to avoid scams:
The call was typical of fraudsters who have stolen billions of dollars a year from Americans. Rosenblum said she opted to go public with her account to warn Oregonians that if it can happen to her, it can happen to anyone.
Read full article
Oregon’s attorney general said she had a close call: ‘If it could happen to me, it could happen to anyone’
Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum received a text from her bank asking if she’d recently spent $750 at Walmart.
She hastily texted back “NO,” and almost immediately her phone rang.
Rosenblum, who’s made consumer protection a priority, spent 10 minutes on the phone.
She grew increasingly suspicious.
The caller, frustrated with her questions, hung up.
Tips to avoid scams:
- Do not give anyone you don’t know personal information, including your Social Security number and credit card and bank account information.
- Do not click on links from someone you don’t know in an email. You could end up with an electronic virus.
- If you get a call from someone who says they work at your bank, hang up and call your bank. Do not call a number they give you because it’s likely to be phony.
- Ignore instructions to text “STOP” or “NO” to prevent future texts.
- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
The call was typical of fraudsters who have stolen billions of dollars a year from Americans. Rosenblum said she opted to go public with her account to warn Oregonians that if it can happen to her, it can happen to anyone.
Read full article
SPORTS STREAMING SCAMS
BBB: Sports fans should be aware of sports streaming scams
August 29, 2022
NEW 8/31/2022
The Better Business Bureau is warning sports fans to be aware of sports streaming scams.
Scammers are posting links on social media — particularly Twitter — that look like links to local school sports games, but really, they are just a way to steal your information.
#sportsscams #streamingscams
Read full article.
The Better Business Bureau is warning sports fans to be aware of sports streaming scams.
Scammers are posting links on social media — particularly Twitter — that look like links to local school sports games, but really, they are just a way to steal your information.
#sportsscams #streamingscams
Read full article.
ELDER FINANCIAL FRAUD
Nevada woman sentenced to 7 years in prison for committing financial fraud against the elderly
August 30, 2022
NEW 8/31/2022
A Nevada woman was sentenced to 7 years in prison for committing financial fraud against the elderly. According to United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld, Shelly Leipham of Las Vegas was found guilty by a jury in April of wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering. Leipham called an elderly victim living in Harrison County and claimed the victim won one million dollars.
Leipham defrauded the victim of nearly $25,000 by directing the victim to send that amount to her over the course of a two-year period by mail and wire.
“Leipham badgered and manipulated her elderly victims by calling them over and over again, disregarded the hardships they were experiencing while she was exploiting them, repeatedly lied to them, and accepted no responsibility for her conduct,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “The lengthy prison term imposed today was necessary in order to address her callous conduct.”
In addition to serving an 87-month prison sentence, Leipham must pay a money judgment of $336,402.
Read More
A Nevada woman was sentenced to 7 years in prison for committing financial fraud against the elderly. According to United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld, Shelly Leipham of Las Vegas was found guilty by a jury in April of wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering. Leipham called an elderly victim living in Harrison County and claimed the victim won one million dollars.
Leipham defrauded the victim of nearly $25,000 by directing the victim to send that amount to her over the course of a two-year period by mail and wire.
“Leipham badgered and manipulated her elderly victims by calling them over and over again, disregarded the hardships they were experiencing while she was exploiting them, repeatedly lied to them, and accepted no responsibility for her conduct,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “The lengthy prison term imposed today was necessary in order to address her callous conduct.”
In addition to serving an 87-month prison sentence, Leipham must pay a money judgment of $336,402.
Read More
TRANSNATIONAL SCAMS
Warning about Romanian ‘transnational criminals’ committing jewelry scams, distraction thefts
August 28, 2022
NEW 8/30/2022
Pennsylvania State Police issue warning about Romanian ‘transnational criminals’ committing jewelry scams, distraction thefts and more.
Authorities say criminals from Romania have been fleecing people with fake jewelry, fitting gas station card readers with skimming devices, snatching cellphones and otherwise breaking the law in Pennsylvania of late.
In a community awareness bulletin issued Thursday, Pennsylvania state police said the culprits — often described as looking Middle Eastern or Hispanic — will sometimes pose as stranded motorists in need of cash and offer to sell 18-karat gold jewelry to people who stop to help. The jewelry, stamped 18k, turns out to be counterfeit.
Read More
Pennsylvania State Police issue warning about Romanian ‘transnational criminals’ committing jewelry scams, distraction thefts and more.
Authorities say criminals from Romania have been fleecing people with fake jewelry, fitting gas station card readers with skimming devices, snatching cellphones and otherwise breaking the law in Pennsylvania of late.
In a community awareness bulletin issued Thursday, Pennsylvania state police said the culprits — often described as looking Middle Eastern or Hispanic — will sometimes pose as stranded motorists in need of cash and offer to sell 18-karat gold jewelry to people who stop to help. The jewelry, stamped 18k, turns out to be counterfeit.
Read More
ELDER FRAUD
Avoiding Scams, Fraud, and Identity Theft
August 16, 2022
NEW 8/27/2022
A 2019 study by the University of Southern California asserts that financial elder abuse makes up 55% of all elder abuse. In Marin County alone, financial abuse cases make up 32% of all referrals to Adult Protective Services. Nationwide, it’s estimated that only 1 in 10 cases is reported.
Read More
A 2019 study by the University of Southern California asserts that financial elder abuse makes up 55% of all elder abuse. In Marin County alone, financial abuse cases make up 32% of all referrals to Adult Protective Services. Nationwide, it’s estimated that only 1 in 10 cases is reported.
Read More
ELDER FRAUD
Romance scammer took $400K from Sierra Vista woman
August 21, 2022
NEW 8/27/2022
A 77-year-old woman from Southern Arizona sent nearly $400,000 to an online boyfriend who turned out to be part of an international romance scam ring based in Nigeria, court records show.
Ighorhiohwunu, 47 and a resident of Georgia, has been behind bars since mid-2021 when he was arrested by Atlanta FBI agents and transferred to Tucson to await trial.
Court heard evidence he worked as a money mule for the Nigerian scammers, collecting funds from victims and transferring them overseas.
READ MORE
A 77-year-old woman from Southern Arizona sent nearly $400,000 to an online boyfriend who turned out to be part of an international romance scam ring based in Nigeria, court records show.
Ighorhiohwunu, 47 and a resident of Georgia, has been behind bars since mid-2021 when he was arrested by Atlanta FBI agents and transferred to Tucson to await trial.
Court heard evidence he worked as a money mule for the Nigerian scammers, collecting funds from victims and transferring them overseas.
READ MORE
ELDER FRAUD
Woman sentenced to nearly 3 years for elder fraud
August 22, 2022
NEW 8/26/2022
A Cape Coral woman was sentenced to two years and nine months in federal prison for defrauding elderly people with phony tech support.
Nicole Sprague, 38, was found guilty of committing mail fraud and conspiring to commit mail fraud. As part of her sentence, the court also ordered restitution to the identified victims in the amount of $297,900 and entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $250,000, representing the proceeds of the fraud. Sprague pleaded guilty on May 24.
Read full story
A Cape Coral woman was sentenced to two years and nine months in federal prison for defrauding elderly people with phony tech support.
Nicole Sprague, 38, was found guilty of committing mail fraud and conspiring to commit mail fraud. As part of her sentence, the court also ordered restitution to the identified victims in the amount of $297,900 and entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $250,000, representing the proceeds of the fraud. Sprague pleaded guilty on May 24.
Read full story
ELDER FRAUD
Indiana Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Fraud Crimes
August 25, 2022
NEW 8/26/2022
Stefanie Marie Wells, 37, of Jasonville, Indiana, pleaded guilty today to bank fraud and aggravated identify theft, after obtaining or attempting to obtain $17,550 using stolen checkbooks and driver’s licenses at West Virginia banks.
Wells is scheduled to be sentenced on November 16, 2022 and faces a maximum penalty of 32 years in prison, five years of supervised release, and a $1,250,000 fine.
https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdwv/pr/indiana-woman-pleads-guilty-federal-fraud-crimes
Stefanie Marie Wells, 37, of Jasonville, Indiana, pleaded guilty today to bank fraud and aggravated identify theft, after obtaining or attempting to obtain $17,550 using stolen checkbooks and driver’s licenses at West Virginia banks.
Wells is scheduled to be sentenced on November 16, 2022 and faces a maximum penalty of 32 years in prison, five years of supervised release, and a $1,250,000 fine.
https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdwv/pr/indiana-woman-pleads-guilty-federal-fraud-crimes
GRANDPARENT SCAM
Man sentenced to eight years in federal prison for mail fraud and money laundering connected to a nationwide "grandparent scheme."
August 25, 2022
NEW 8/25/2022
Jasaun Pope, also known as “Biz," 31, along with alleged co-conspirators Darlens Renard, Princess Elizer, Jennifer Glemeau, and Kareem Brown, targeted and exploited the elderly.
Between April 2020 and January 2021, the group is accused of convincing elderly Americans around the country to pay tens of thousands of dollars to help their grandchild or other close family relative in a scam known as a “grandparent scam.”
The calls usually said a grandchild or other family member had an urgent medical or legal problem and needed money immediately. They would then say an overnight delivery of $5,000 to $15,000 was needed. The scammers used addresses of vacant homes around the country to try to keep from getting caught.
More than 68 victims have been identified so far, and they are believed to have sent the scammers more than $683,464.
“These sophisticated criminal organizations exploit the elderly by preying on the love and commitment they have for their families,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Myers. “These heinous frauds wreak immeasurable financial and emotional harm on victims to satisfy the greed of networks of criminals. Our office will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute scammers who seek to take advantage of vulnerable members of our community.”
As part of Pope's sentence, he would need to pay $554,574 in restitution to the victims.
The Justice Department has established a National Elder Fraud Hotline to provide services to seniors who may be victims of financial fraud at 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311).
READ MORE HERE
Jasaun Pope, also known as “Biz," 31, along with alleged co-conspirators Darlens Renard, Princess Elizer, Jennifer Glemeau, and Kareem Brown, targeted and exploited the elderly.
Between April 2020 and January 2021, the group is accused of convincing elderly Americans around the country to pay tens of thousands of dollars to help their grandchild or other close family relative in a scam known as a “grandparent scam.”
The calls usually said a grandchild or other family member had an urgent medical or legal problem and needed money immediately. They would then say an overnight delivery of $5,000 to $15,000 was needed. The scammers used addresses of vacant homes around the country to try to keep from getting caught.
More than 68 victims have been identified so far, and they are believed to have sent the scammers more than $683,464.
“These sophisticated criminal organizations exploit the elderly by preying on the love and commitment they have for their families,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Myers. “These heinous frauds wreak immeasurable financial and emotional harm on victims to satisfy the greed of networks of criminals. Our office will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute scammers who seek to take advantage of vulnerable members of our community.”
As part of Pope's sentence, he would need to pay $554,574 in restitution to the victims.
The Justice Department has established a National Elder Fraud Hotline to provide services to seniors who may be victims of financial fraud at 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311).
READ MORE HERE
FRAUD
Zelle scams cost customers thousands: How to protect yourself from being conned
Mach 25, 2022
New August 24, 2022
Zelle payment app customers are new targets for scammers who are claiming to be bank employees aiming to con you out of thousands of dollars.
One woman in D.C. said she lost $3,500 after a scammer claimed that money was taken from her account and she needed to reverse the transaction.
Credible.com personal finance expert told FOX Business' Maria Bartiromo on "Mornings with Maria" that victims have little protection against these scams.
He warned that scammers will text or call Zelle customers, impersonating the company through a variety of methods, including spoofing phone numbers, claiming that your account has been compromised, or payment did not go through. Once the scammers get the customers on the phone, they already have certain personal information and will ask to reverse a transaction.
READ MORE https://www.fox5dc.com/news/zelle-scams-cost-customers-thousands-how-to-protect-yourself-from-being-conned
Zelle payment app customers are new targets for scammers who are claiming to be bank employees aiming to con you out of thousands of dollars.
One woman in D.C. said she lost $3,500 after a scammer claimed that money was taken from her account and she needed to reverse the transaction.
Credible.com personal finance expert told FOX Business' Maria Bartiromo on "Mornings with Maria" that victims have little protection against these scams.
He warned that scammers will text or call Zelle customers, impersonating the company through a variety of methods, including spoofing phone numbers, claiming that your account has been compromised, or payment did not go through. Once the scammers get the customers on the phone, they already have certain personal information and will ask to reverse a transaction.
READ MORE https://www.fox5dc.com/news/zelle-scams-cost-customers-thousands-how-to-protect-yourself-from-being-conned
RETAIL THEFT
Detectives Solve the Case of 3 Major ORC Rings
August 18, 2022
NEW 8/24/2022
Detectives Solve the Case of 3 Major ORC Rings
Detectives in the wealthy Seattle suburb of Bellevue, Washington are claiming to have busted three major organized retail theft rings responsible for more than $100,000 in stolen merchandise.
In one case, four suspects have been charged—three for stealing from a Louis Vuitton store, and the fourth for selling the stolen bags illegally. The first three suspects allegedly went twice to the store in June 2022 and stole about $93,000 worth of purses.
Read More:
https://losspreventionmedia.com/detectives-solve-the-case-of-3-major-orc-rings/
Detectives Solve the Case of 3 Major ORC Rings
Detectives in the wealthy Seattle suburb of Bellevue, Washington are claiming to have busted three major organized retail theft rings responsible for more than $100,000 in stolen merchandise.
In one case, four suspects have been charged—three for stealing from a Louis Vuitton store, and the fourth for selling the stolen bags illegally. The first three suspects allegedly went twice to the store in June 2022 and stole about $93,000 worth of purses.
Read More:
https://losspreventionmedia.com/detectives-solve-the-case-of-3-major-orc-rings/
LOTTERY SCAM
Jamaican National Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Elderly Americans Through a Jamaica-Based Lottery Scam
August 21, 2022
New 8/24/2022
A Jamaican man pleaded guilty in Miami federal court today to participating in a lottery fraud scheme targeting elderly victims in the United States.
According to court documents, Greg Warren Clarke, 29, of Montego Bay, Jamaica, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud for his role in a Jamaica-based fraudulent lottery scheme that convinced American victims – many of whom were elderly – to pay money to collect fictitious lottery winnings. An indictment was filed against Clarke in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida in April 2019 and unsealed upon his extradition to the United States, which occurred in May 2022.
“This guilty plea demonstrates the Justice Department’s dedication to prosecuting those responsible for fraudulent lottery schemes, even when they commit their crimes from foreign countries,”
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/jamaican-national-pleads-guilty-defrauding-elderly-americans-through-jamaica-based-lottery
A Jamaican man pleaded guilty in Miami federal court today to participating in a lottery fraud scheme targeting elderly victims in the United States.
According to court documents, Greg Warren Clarke, 29, of Montego Bay, Jamaica, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud for his role in a Jamaica-based fraudulent lottery scheme that convinced American victims – many of whom were elderly – to pay money to collect fictitious lottery winnings. An indictment was filed against Clarke in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida in April 2019 and unsealed upon his extradition to the United States, which occurred in May 2022.
“This guilty plea demonstrates the Justice Department’s dedication to prosecuting those responsible for fraudulent lottery schemes, even when they commit their crimes from foreign countries,”
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/jamaican-national-pleads-guilty-defrauding-elderly-americans-through-jamaica-based-lottery
Man with Warrants Gives Fake Name, Arrested on Warrants for Fake Name
November 11, 2019
NEW 8/24/2022
A game warden in Texas stopped a pair of men fishing without valid fishing licenses. One of the men didn't have proper identification.
According to the Houston Chronicle, the man without the ID knew he had active warrants for his arrest and in an effort to deceive the law enforcement officer gave the warden the name of a friend.
As it happens, the man whose name was given to the warden also had warrants for his arrest, so despite his attempt to dupe the warden, the man was taken into custody anyway.
While he was being booked into jail under the false name, the man admitted to his lie and booked under his real name with the additional charge of lying to a police officer.
Source: https://www.policemag.com/531940/man-with-warrants-gives-fake-name-arrested-on-warrants-for-fake-name
A game warden in Texas stopped a pair of men fishing without valid fishing licenses. One of the men didn't have proper identification.
According to the Houston Chronicle, the man without the ID knew he had active warrants for his arrest and in an effort to deceive the law enforcement officer gave the warden the name of a friend.
As it happens, the man whose name was given to the warden also had warrants for his arrest, so despite his attempt to dupe the warden, the man was taken into custody anyway.
While he was being booked into jail under the false name, the man admitted to his lie and booked under his real name with the additional charge of lying to a police officer.
Source: https://www.policemag.com/531940/man-with-warrants-gives-fake-name-arrested-on-warrants-for-fake-name
HOME REPAIR
Driveway paving scams popular in late summer
August 22, 2022
NEW 8/23/2022
The Better Business Bureau says to keep an eye out for scammers. It’s not uncommon for amateur workers to try to go around to neighborhoods and drum up on-the-spot business and that should be a red flag.
For full story: https://www.advantagenews.com/news/local/granite-city-news/driveway-paving-scams-popular-in-late-summer/article_11c30e9c-1fea-11ed-9d81-8fa91217ae35.html
The Better Business Bureau says to keep an eye out for scammers. It’s not uncommon for amateur workers to try to go around to neighborhoods and drum up on-the-spot business and that should be a red flag.
For full story: https://www.advantagenews.com/news/local/granite-city-news/driveway-paving-scams-popular-in-late-summer/article_11c30e9c-1fea-11ed-9d81-8fa91217ae35.html
Two Men Arrested After Vehicle Search Finds Drugs in Bag Marked "Bag Full of Drugs"
NEW 8/23/2022
Two men were arrested in Santa Rosa County, FL, Saturday after law enforcement officers said they found illegal drugs in a bag labeled "Bag Full of Drugs."
The men were pulled over by a state trooper for allegedly speeding 25 miles over the limit.
"Santa Rosa (County Sheriff's Office) K-9 Deputies recently assisted FHP on a traffic stop on I-10 where a large amount of narcotics was discovered. Note to self- do not traffic your illegal narcotics in bags labeled “Bag Full Of Drugs”. Our K-9’s can read," a Facebook post from the Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office said.
See full story: https://www.policemag.com/541560/troopers-arrest-men-after-finding-drugs-in-bag-marked-bag-full-of-drugs
Two men were arrested in Santa Rosa County, FL, Saturday after law enforcement officers said they found illegal drugs in a bag labeled "Bag Full of Drugs."
The men were pulled over by a state trooper for allegedly speeding 25 miles over the limit.
"Santa Rosa (County Sheriff's Office) K-9 Deputies recently assisted FHP on a traffic stop on I-10 where a large amount of narcotics was discovered. Note to self- do not traffic your illegal narcotics in bags labeled “Bag Full Of Drugs”. Our K-9’s can read," a Facebook post from the Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office said.
See full story: https://www.policemag.com/541560/troopers-arrest-men-after-finding-drugs-in-bag-marked-bag-full-of-drugs
SCAM ALERT
Scams and Cryptocurrency Can Go Hand in Hand
August 21, 2022
NEW 8/22/2022, 15:26
Here is what to watch out for:
From Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-fraud-crisis/202208/scams-and-cryptocurrency-can-go-hand-in-hand
Here is what to watch out for:
From Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-fraud-crisis/202208/scams-and-cryptocurrency-can-go-hand-in-hand
FRAUD ALERT
Be on the alert for scammers
August 13, 2022
NEW 8/22/2022
Scammers are getting more complex with their tactics nowadays, and seemingly everyone is a target.
The elderly are the most susceptible.
Scammers use a variety of methods to take advantage of people whether it be online, on the phone or in person.
They are masters of persuasion. They have a plausible story and are the ultimate salesperson with a tempting offer. They will find your most vulnerable moment.
Scammers will scour through recent obituaries and contact survivors “because they know they’re lonely.”
“They know they’re looking for some type of attention and can quickly gain their trust,” “They’re looking for a friend. They’ll make notes about you and act like your friend. Sometimes they’ll work on people for months — they show no mercy.”
It was said that elder fraud is up 120% in the last two years, with the pandemic and seclusion not helping matters.
Extracted from https://www.theeveningleader.com/news/on-alert-for-scammers/article_4d6684e2-18c4-11ed-8693-8b33076e80c2.html
Scammers are getting more complex with their tactics nowadays, and seemingly everyone is a target.
The elderly are the most susceptible.
Scammers use a variety of methods to take advantage of people whether it be online, on the phone or in person.
They are masters of persuasion. They have a plausible story and are the ultimate salesperson with a tempting offer. They will find your most vulnerable moment.
Scammers will scour through recent obituaries and contact survivors “because they know they’re lonely.”
“They know they’re looking for some type of attention and can quickly gain their trust,” “They’re looking for a friend. They’ll make notes about you and act like your friend. Sometimes they’ll work on people for months — they show no mercy.”
It was said that elder fraud is up 120% in the last two years, with the pandemic and seclusion not helping matters.
Extracted from https://www.theeveningleader.com/news/on-alert-for-scammers/article_4d6684e2-18c4-11ed-8693-8b33076e80c2.html
Bunco
Quick-Change Scam*, DuBois, PA
August 14, 2022
NEW 8/21/2022
Employees of TJ Maxx, located at 120 Commons Drive in Sandy Township, reported that three men came into the store on 08/14/2022. While two of them were checking out, they were able to execute a quick-change scam and theft. One man, described as black, was wearing a navy-blue suit and tan hat, and had a silver and diamond “grillz” on his bottom teeth. The second man, also described as black, was wearing a blue hoodie and a black medical mask. The suspects fled the scene in a Subaru without a registration plate.
If you have information, contact the Pennsylvania State Police, Punxsutawney, at (814) 765-1533
www.thecourierexpress.com/news/
*For a definition of "Quick Change" go to https://www.nabihq.org/nabi-newsroom.html
Employees of TJ Maxx, located at 120 Commons Drive in Sandy Township, reported that three men came into the store on 08/14/2022. While two of them were checking out, they were able to execute a quick-change scam and theft. One man, described as black, was wearing a navy-blue suit and tan hat, and had a silver and diamond “grillz” on his bottom teeth. The second man, also described as black, was wearing a blue hoodie and a black medical mask. The suspects fled the scene in a Subaru without a registration plate.
If you have information, contact the Pennsylvania State Police, Punxsutawney, at (814) 765-1533
www.thecourierexpress.com/news/
*For a definition of "Quick Change" go to https://www.nabihq.org/nabi-newsroom.html
Bunco
Fortune Telling Scam/Suspect Pleads Guilty
NEW 8/21/2022
A Hopkins [Minn.] woman who operated a psychic readings shop pleaded guilty to swindling people out of more than $130,000, claiming she could get rid of curses. Cynthia Julie EVANS, 27, was originally charged in October 2021 with two counts of financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult and two counts of theft by swindle in connection to her scheme.
Evans pleaded guilty on 08/01/2022 to the two counts of theft by swindle and had the other two charges dismissed as part of the plea deal. According to charges, two customers at her Psychic Readings shop in Hopkins' Mainstreet went into debt, opened new credit card accounts, cashed out retirement accounts and life insurance policies, and deceived others to get the money to pay Evans.
https://bringmethenews.com.minnesota-news/
A Hopkins [Minn.] woman who operated a psychic readings shop pleaded guilty to swindling people out of more than $130,000, claiming she could get rid of curses. Cynthia Julie EVANS, 27, was originally charged in October 2021 with two counts of financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult and two counts of theft by swindle in connection to her scheme.
Evans pleaded guilty on 08/01/2022 to the two counts of theft by swindle and had the other two charges dismissed as part of the plea deal. According to charges, two customers at her Psychic Readings shop in Hopkins' Mainstreet went into debt, opened new credit card accounts, cashed out retirement accounts and life insurance policies, and deceived others to get the money to pay Evans.
https://bringmethenews.com.minnesota-news/
ELDER FRAUD
How to Spot a Grandparents Scam
August 16, 2022
New 8/20/2022
Grandparents love their grandchildren, and criminals love to take advantage of that for their financial gain. One of the more popular scams today is the “grandparent scam.” AARP Oklahoma State Director Sean Voskuhl says this is where scammers claim to be your grandchild or reaching out on their behalf who needs urgent help.
“They will say that your grandchild was in an accident or may be in the hospital — they may even tell you your grandchild hurt someone and is now in jail. They’ll ask you to send money right away — often through a money transfer or by purchasing gift cards and sharing the activation information on the back of the cards.”
For more: https://sfntoday.com/how-to-spot-a-grandparents-scam/
Grandparents love their grandchildren, and criminals love to take advantage of that for their financial gain. One of the more popular scams today is the “grandparent scam.” AARP Oklahoma State Director Sean Voskuhl says this is where scammers claim to be your grandchild or reaching out on their behalf who needs urgent help.
“They will say that your grandchild was in an accident or may be in the hospital — they may even tell you your grandchild hurt someone and is now in jail. They’ll ask you to send money right away — often through a money transfer or by purchasing gift cards and sharing the activation information on the back of the cards.”
For more: https://sfntoday.com/how-to-spot-a-grandparents-scam/
ELDER FRAUD
12 Scams to Avoid During Retirement
August 10, 2022
NEW 8/20/2022
Are you planning to retire?
If so, here are 12 scams to avoid during retirement:
Scams use the stereotype of a confused, older person giving their money to a scammer is almost cliché at this point in time. Unfortunately, not many people question this idea, leading them to ask why seniors fall for scams in the first place. A better question may be, why does anyone fall for a scam?
Some experts theorize that perhaps heightened isolation and loneliness that many retirees experience primes them to fall prey to scams. Others hypothesize that some degree of diminishment of cognitive abilities might be at play, making seniors more susceptible to believing outlandish claims.
However, it might surprise you that the “seniors fall for scams all the time” trope is actually a myth. In fact, one annual study suggests that year after year — young people fall for scams and hoaxes more than their elders — losing more money to unscrupulous bad actors every year.
Even so, people do target retirees for scams that seek to separate them from their limited funds and income. That’s why it’s crucial to protect your assets by avoiding a financial crisis you’ll find challenging to resolve later on. Here are the 12 top scams that seek to target people during their retirement years.
Continue reading: https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/12-scams-to-avoid-during-retirement
Are you planning to retire?
If so, here are 12 scams to avoid during retirement:
Scams use the stereotype of a confused, older person giving their money to a scammer is almost cliché at this point in time. Unfortunately, not many people question this idea, leading them to ask why seniors fall for scams in the first place. A better question may be, why does anyone fall for a scam?
Some experts theorize that perhaps heightened isolation and loneliness that many retirees experience primes them to fall prey to scams. Others hypothesize that some degree of diminishment of cognitive abilities might be at play, making seniors more susceptible to believing outlandish claims.
However, it might surprise you that the “seniors fall for scams all the time” trope is actually a myth. In fact, one annual study suggests that year after year — young people fall for scams and hoaxes more than their elders — losing more money to unscrupulous bad actors every year.
Even so, people do target retirees for scams that seek to separate them from their limited funds and income. That’s why it’s crucial to protect your assets by avoiding a financial crisis you’ll find challenging to resolve later on. Here are the 12 top scams that seek to target people during their retirement years.
Continue reading: https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/12-scams-to-avoid-during-retirement
ELDER FRAUD
Man in ‘Grandparent Scam’ Network Sentenced to 46 months for RICO Conspiracy Targeting the Elderly
August 18, 2022
NEW 8/19/2022
A California man was sentenced today to 46 months in prison for his participation in a large-scale “grandparent scam.”
According to court documents, Jack Owuor, 25, of Paramount, California, was part of a network of individuals who, through extortion and fraud, induced elderly Americans across the United States to pay up to tens of thousands of dollars each to purportedly help their grandchild or other loved one. On March 9, 2022, ...
SEE MORE: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/defendant-grandparent-scam-network-sentenced-rico-conspiracy-targeting-elderly-americans
A California man was sentenced today to 46 months in prison for his participation in a large-scale “grandparent scam.”
According to court documents, Jack Owuor, 25, of Paramount, California, was part of a network of individuals who, through extortion and fraud, induced elderly Americans across the United States to pay up to tens of thousands of dollars each to purportedly help their grandchild or other loved one. On March 9, 2022, ...
SEE MORE: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/defendant-grandparent-scam-network-sentenced-rico-conspiracy-targeting-elderly-americans
ELDER FRAUD
Man sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in an online romance scam targeting elderly victims
August 16, 2022
NEW 8/19/2022
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, U.S. District Judge Robert J. Conrad Jr. sentenced Michael Moore, 40, a Liberian national, to 10 years in prison for his role in an online romance scheme that targeted older adults, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Judge Conrad also ordered Moore to pay more than $1.7 million as restitution to the victims of the fraud.
READ MORE: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdnc/pr/liberian-national-sentenced-10-years-prison-his-role-online-romance-scam-targeting
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, U.S. District Judge Robert J. Conrad Jr. sentenced Michael Moore, 40, a Liberian national, to 10 years in prison for his role in an online romance scheme that targeted older adults, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Judge Conrad also ordered Moore to pay more than $1.7 million as restitution to the victims of the fraud.
READ MORE: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdnc/pr/liberian-national-sentenced-10-years-prison-his-role-online-romance-scam-targeting
Home Repair
Protect yourself against home repair fraud
August 13, 2022
NEW 8/18/2022
Home repair fraud targets seniors
Here is how the scam works and what you can do to protect yourself.
Home repair fraud targets seniors
Here is how the scam works and what you can do to protect yourself.
- The fraud involves contractors travelling door-to-door selling unsolicited services. The contractor will provide quotes with prices lower than market value. Once a deal is reached, they request a large cash payment.
- Based on complaints, initial work may start; however, the work will be sub-par and/or incomplete.
- After this initial work, the consumer may be approached to provide more money for supplies or to complete payment for the project. Once this additional or final payment is received, the contractor disappears and phone calls and text messages will go unanswered, leaving the consumer with a damaged or incomplete project.
- There have been complaints with this similar mode of operation and suspects.
- [Although the suspects can be any nationality, many] are described as white males with Irish or possibly Scottish accents.
- The “contractor” or suspects that traditionally perpetrate these types of scams can be aggressive and eager to acquire an initial cash deposit from victims. A series of business cards, pamphlets, and printed contracts may also accompany door-to-door sales pitches.
GOOD NEWS
Toddler finds missing elderly woman
August 16, 2022
NEW 8/17/2022
Toddler finds missing elderly woman while playing with bubbles
ENOIA, Ga. (WGCL/Gray News) - A toddler in Georgia is being credited for helping find an elderly woman who had been missing for four days, WGCL reported.
Last Friday, Brittany Moore and her son, Ethan, were playing with bubbles in their backyard when the bubbles drifted toward the family’s fence line.
Ethan and the dogs chased the bubbles, but something in the woods caught Ethan’s eye.
“I went over there and was like, ‘What do you see, buddy?’ and he pointed and said, ‘Feet,’” Moore said. “‘OK, buddy can you say that again? What did you say?’ And he said, ‘Feet.’”
Moore said she did not see anything until she crouched down to her son’s level and looked where he was pointing. It was at this point that she noticed a pair of feet.
“If you get on his level and look through, you can see some of the broken sticks and that’s where she was laying,” she said. “I didn’t know if I needed to go into fight or flight because I had my little boy out here and the other inside.”
Moore said she panicked but called for help. When first responders arrived, they realized it was 82-year-old Nina Lipscomb, who had been missing since last Monday night, according to her family.
Authorities and community members had been actively searching for Lipscomb since she disappeared. Investigators even used thermal technology to search for Lipscomb, who has early-stage Alzheimer’s. She was alive but disoriented when Ethan spotted her less than a quarter of a mile from where she was last seen.
“We pulled out every resource we thought we needed, but it was a little boy who found her, and she’s very fond of children,” Nina Lipscomb’s daughter, Karen Lipscomb, said.
Karen Lipscomb said her mother told her she left the house to go look for her deceased sister.
“Her sister lived here in this house, but she passed away in March, but growing up they lived on Glacier Road, which is just around the corner,” she said.
Monday afternoon, Nina met Ethan shortly after being released from the hospital. Her family said the toddler likely saved her life.
The families said they are forever connected all because a little boy wanted to play outside with his bubbles.
“I truly think this was something outside of what any human could do,” Moore said. “It took a child who was being worked by God. We will always teach him what he did, how he played an impact in it.”
The Lipscomb family offered to give the Moore family reward money, but they refused.
Nina Lipscomb turns 83 on Friday.
Copyright 2022 WGCL via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
https://www.fox10tv.com/2022/08/16/georgia-toddler-finds-missing-elderly-woman-while-playing-with-bubbles/
Toddler finds missing elderly woman while playing with bubbles
ENOIA, Ga. (WGCL/Gray News) - A toddler in Georgia is being credited for helping find an elderly woman who had been missing for four days, WGCL reported.
Last Friday, Brittany Moore and her son, Ethan, were playing with bubbles in their backyard when the bubbles drifted toward the family’s fence line.
Ethan and the dogs chased the bubbles, but something in the woods caught Ethan’s eye.
“I went over there and was like, ‘What do you see, buddy?’ and he pointed and said, ‘Feet,’” Moore said. “‘OK, buddy can you say that again? What did you say?’ And he said, ‘Feet.’”
Moore said she did not see anything until she crouched down to her son’s level and looked where he was pointing. It was at this point that she noticed a pair of feet.
“If you get on his level and look through, you can see some of the broken sticks and that’s where she was laying,” she said. “I didn’t know if I needed to go into fight or flight because I had my little boy out here and the other inside.”
Moore said she panicked but called for help. When first responders arrived, they realized it was 82-year-old Nina Lipscomb, who had been missing since last Monday night, according to her family.
Authorities and community members had been actively searching for Lipscomb since she disappeared. Investigators even used thermal technology to search for Lipscomb, who has early-stage Alzheimer’s. She was alive but disoriented when Ethan spotted her less than a quarter of a mile from where she was last seen.
“We pulled out every resource we thought we needed, but it was a little boy who found her, and she’s very fond of children,” Nina Lipscomb’s daughter, Karen Lipscomb, said.
Karen Lipscomb said her mother told her she left the house to go look for her deceased sister.
“Her sister lived here in this house, but she passed away in March, but growing up they lived on Glacier Road, which is just around the corner,” she said.
Monday afternoon, Nina met Ethan shortly after being released from the hospital. Her family said the toddler likely saved her life.
The families said they are forever connected all because a little boy wanted to play outside with his bubbles.
“I truly think this was something outside of what any human could do,” Moore said. “It took a child who was being worked by God. We will always teach him what he did, how he played an impact in it.”
The Lipscomb family offered to give the Moore family reward money, but they refused.
Nina Lipscomb turns 83 on Friday.
Copyright 2022 WGCL via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
https://www.fox10tv.com/2022/08/16/georgia-toddler-finds-missing-elderly-woman-while-playing-with-bubbles/
ELDER FRAUD
Texas man charged with participating in scheme to defraud elderly resident of $345,000
August 15,2022
NEW 8/16/2022
Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that a federal grand jury returned an Indictment charging David Joseph Osinski, age 57, a resident of Arlington, Texas, with six counts of conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering in connection with his alleged role in a fraud scheme that stole more than $345,000 from an elderly Spokane resident in 2021.
MORE:
https://www.justice.gov/usao-edwa/pr/texas-man-charged-participating-scheme-defraud-spokane-resident-345000
Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that a federal grand jury returned an Indictment charging David Joseph Osinski, age 57, a resident of Arlington, Texas, with six counts of conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering in connection with his alleged role in a fraud scheme that stole more than $345,000 from an elderly Spokane resident in 2021.
MORE:
https://www.justice.gov/usao-edwa/pr/texas-man-charged-participating-scheme-defraud-spokane-resident-345000
ELDER FRAUD
Man pleaded guilty to money laundering scheme that defrauded at least 200 victims, many of whom are elderly, of at least $2.5 million.
August 9, 2022
NEW 8/16/2022
Nigerian national pleads guilty to role in fraud, money laundering scheme
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. -- A Nigerian national pleaded guilty today to receipt of stolen money in connection with a fraud and money laundering scheme that defrauded at least 200 victims, many of whom are elderly, of at least $2.5 million.
According to court documents and statements made in court, John Nassy, 29, admitted to participating in the scheme from June 2018 until at least May 2019 while he attended college in Huntington. Other members of the conspiracy created online false personas and contacted victims via email, text messaging or online dating and social media websites. The conspirators sought to induce the victims into believing they were in a romantic relationship, friendship, or business relationship with various false personas. The victims were persuaded to send money for a variety of false and fraudulent reasons for the benefit of the false personas. Nassy admitted that he let victims transfer at least $148,000 to his bank accounts that he knew was from unlawful activity.
Nassy is among 10 men charged in four separate indictments with various fraud-related crimes in connection with the scheme. Six co-defendants have pleaded guilty. Charges remain pending against the other co-defendants. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
https://insurancenewsnet.com/oarticle/nigerian-national-pleads-guilty-to-role-in-fraud-money-laundering-scheme
Nigerian national pleads guilty to role in fraud, money laundering scheme
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. -- A Nigerian national pleaded guilty today to receipt of stolen money in connection with a fraud and money laundering scheme that defrauded at least 200 victims, many of whom are elderly, of at least $2.5 million.
According to court documents and statements made in court, John Nassy, 29, admitted to participating in the scheme from June 2018 until at least May 2019 while he attended college in Huntington. Other members of the conspiracy created online false personas and contacted victims via email, text messaging or online dating and social media websites. The conspirators sought to induce the victims into believing they were in a romantic relationship, friendship, or business relationship with various false personas. The victims were persuaded to send money for a variety of false and fraudulent reasons for the benefit of the false personas. Nassy admitted that he let victims transfer at least $148,000 to his bank accounts that he knew was from unlawful activity.
Nassy is among 10 men charged in four separate indictments with various fraud-related crimes in connection with the scheme. Six co-defendants have pleaded guilty. Charges remain pending against the other co-defendants. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
https://insurancenewsnet.com/oarticle/nigerian-national-pleads-guilty-to-role-in-fraud-money-laundering-scheme
ELDER FRAUD
Senior scams take a variety of forms
August 13, 2022
NEW 8/15/2022
Senior scams take a variety of forms
Scoundrels who take financial advantage of seniors are always working to enrich themselves. In Napa, there are unfortunately all forms of financial elder abuse. Illegal or improper use of an older adult’s funds, property or assets is elder financial abuse. All elders, whether they are surrounded by family and friends, or alone and isolated, are vulnerable in every racial, ethnic, and socio-economic situation. Many trusted persons close to or inside the home use schemes to commit theft from elders taking cash, checks and using debit and credit cards. Meanwhile, other opportunists swoop in to take their victims’ assets in targeted hits involving deeds, wills, trusts and powers of attorney. Financial abuse from strangers, who prey on elders using a wide variety of scams, is also common.
The Federal Trade Commission recommends always using a credit card rather than a debit card when shopping online since credit cards usually have better purchase protections.
Senior scams take a variety of forms
Scoundrels who take financial advantage of seniors are always working to enrich themselves. In Napa, there are unfortunately all forms of financial elder abuse. Illegal or improper use of an older adult’s funds, property or assets is elder financial abuse. All elders, whether they are surrounded by family and friends, or alone and isolated, are vulnerable in every racial, ethnic, and socio-economic situation. Many trusted persons close to or inside the home use schemes to commit theft from elders taking cash, checks and using debit and credit cards. Meanwhile, other opportunists swoop in to take their victims’ assets in targeted hits involving deeds, wills, trusts and powers of attorney. Financial abuse from strangers, who prey on elders using a wide variety of scams, is also common.
The Federal Trade Commission recommends always using a credit card rather than a debit card when shopping online since credit cards usually have better purchase protections.
- Imposters claim to be from the bank, IRS, Social Security, Lottery or PG&E (to name just a few) and try to worm PIN numbers or to gain access to your home. Be wary.
- Scammers call and pretend that your grandchild is in danger/trouble and needs money fast. Variations of the scheme include acting as an attorney, law enforcement or your own grandchild and giving scripts to the victim so they can parrot a convincing story if the bank questions the large withdrawals.
- Scammers scan obituaries and then descend on the surviving spouse and pressure them into risky financial transactions when they are at their most vulnerable. Abusers have also been known to invade vacant homes during funerals or to directly contact their victims by a barrage of phone calls offering un-asked-for services.
- Romance/Sweetheart scammers capitalize on the loneliness and isolation of elders who are vulnerable to the attention of a younger, attractive partner. Marriage to the victim so the abuser can gain legal access to their property is common. Beware of fraudulent use of social media and dating websites/apps. Fake photos and stories are commonly used to communicate by email, text or WhatsApp and the victim never sees their scammer in person.
- Caregivers may be draining your accounts or using your debit or credit cards to illegally supplement their income. Be vigilant and review your finances regularly.
- Family and friends who seem loving and helpful may also be wrongfully helping themselves to your assets. It’s important to remember that even if you trust someone, you should still verify that your finances are secure.
INSURANCE FRAUD
Life insurance fraud costs an average household $1,650 a year and increases life insurance premiums by 25%.
August 2, 2022
NEW 8/15/2022
Life insurance fraud
Life insurance fraud is a black eye for both life insurance companies and life insurance customers. Both parties have been guilty of life insurance fraud and will be again – especially as fraud unfortunately appears to be on the rise by most statistical standards.
Research by the nonprofit organization The Coalition Against Insurance Fraud concludes that life insurance fraud, committed by all parties, costs an average household $1,650 a year and increases life insurance premiums by 25%.
Life insurers are most often guilty of insurance fraud in the form of “churning” their agents. Here the agent is attempting to cancel your existing life insurance policy and replace it with a new policy that will be paid for by the “juice” or cash value of your existing policy. Agents do this to earn more commissions for themselves without having to look for new business opportunities. Churning can result in increased rewards for a customer and clearly costs them their cash value.
However, another insurance fraud practiced by agents is known as “windowing”. This is the case where the agent, unable to obtain a client’s or applicant’s signature on a required document but already has that signature elsewhere, holds a signed document behind the unsigned document, presses it against a window, to allowing the light to shine through, and tracing traces across the signature with a ballpoint pen to forge the signature of the client or applicant.
https://eastofseattle.news/qna/4300/life-insurance-fraud/
Life insurance fraud
Life insurance fraud is a black eye for both life insurance companies and life insurance customers. Both parties have been guilty of life insurance fraud and will be again – especially as fraud unfortunately appears to be on the rise by most statistical standards.
Research by the nonprofit organization The Coalition Against Insurance Fraud concludes that life insurance fraud, committed by all parties, costs an average household $1,650 a year and increases life insurance premiums by 25%.
Life insurers are most often guilty of insurance fraud in the form of “churning” their agents. Here the agent is attempting to cancel your existing life insurance policy and replace it with a new policy that will be paid for by the “juice” or cash value of your existing policy. Agents do this to earn more commissions for themselves without having to look for new business opportunities. Churning can result in increased rewards for a customer and clearly costs them their cash value.
However, another insurance fraud practiced by agents is known as “windowing”. This is the case where the agent, unable to obtain a client’s or applicant’s signature on a required document but already has that signature elsewhere, holds a signed document behind the unsigned document, presses it against a window, to allowing the light to shine through, and tracing traces across the signature with a ballpoint pen to forge the signature of the client or applicant.
https://eastofseattle.news/qna/4300/life-insurance-fraud/
RETAIL THEFT
5 arrested after organized retail theft in Walnut Creek Apple Store
August 1, 2022
NEW 8/12/2022
LOS GATOS, Calif. (KRON) — Five individuals were arrested without incident Saturday in connection to an organized retail theft in Walnut Creek, the Los Gatos Police Department announced in a press release. The theft happened that morning at the Apple Store in Walnut Creek [is] located at 1200 S Main St.
After the suspects left the store with the stolen merchandise, officers were provided a car description and license plate for a red 2014 KIA sedan. Then, Los Gatos police found the suspect car, which had two suspects inside, on the 15000 block of Los Gatos Boulevard during an enforcement stop.
Officers searched the vehicle and found two loaded firearms — one in which was illegally manufactured also known as a “ghost gun.” The two occupants of the car were arrested for their involvement in the theft and illegal possession of firearms, the release said.
As the investigation continued, officers determined another three suspects were in connection to the Apple Store theft: two juveniles and one adult male. They were associated with a gold Chevrolet sedan and in possession of stolen Apple products from the Walnut Creek store.
https://www.kron4.com/news/bay-area/5-arrested-after-organized-retail-theft-in-walnut-creek-apple-store/
LOS GATOS, Calif. (KRON) — Five individuals were arrested without incident Saturday in connection to an organized retail theft in Walnut Creek, the Los Gatos Police Department announced in a press release. The theft happened that morning at the Apple Store in Walnut Creek [is] located at 1200 S Main St.
After the suspects left the store with the stolen merchandise, officers were provided a car description and license plate for a red 2014 KIA sedan. Then, Los Gatos police found the suspect car, which had two suspects inside, on the 15000 block of Los Gatos Boulevard during an enforcement stop.
Officers searched the vehicle and found two loaded firearms — one in which was illegally manufactured also known as a “ghost gun.” The two occupants of the car were arrested for their involvement in the theft and illegal possession of firearms, the release said.
As the investigation continued, officers determined another three suspects were in connection to the Apple Store theft: two juveniles and one adult male. They were associated with a gold Chevrolet sedan and in possession of stolen Apple products from the Walnut Creek store.
https://www.kron4.com/news/bay-area/5-arrested-after-organized-retail-theft-in-walnut-creek-apple-store/
Elder Fraud
Woman Sentenced To Prison For Stealing More Than $600,000 From Elderly, Blind Victim Under Her Guardianship
August 12, 2022
MISSOULA — A Butte woman who admitted to stealing more than $600,000 from an elderly and blind woman, now deceased, who was under her care, and spending the money instead on lake property, vehicles, a pontoon boat and other items for herself was sentenced on Aug. 10 to one year and a day in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
Debra Gean Roeber, 66, pleaded guilty in April to wire fraud and to money laundering.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Judge Christensen also ordered $661,549.00 in restitution.
“Montanans are inherently trusting and the victim in this case trusted Roeber because she was the victim’s guardian. Roeber abused that trust when she defrauded her elderly, lonely, and blind victim, which is not just tragic and egregious, it’s reprehensible and unacceptable. Our office and our law enforcement partners will not tolerate elder abuse, and we will be steadfast in our commitment to protect our most vulnerable friends and neighbors,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
“Senior citizens and those that care about them must be vigilant to prevent future scams targeting elder Americans,” said Andy Tsui, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation Denver Field Office. “As a community, it is our responsibility to care for our elders. As a law enforcement community, it is our duty to hold individuals accountable who abuse their position of trust and steal from the people that are under their care.”
“Motivated purely by greed, Roeber defrauded the victim and betrayed her trust. This was a truly reprehensible crime aggravated by the fact that the victim was blind,” said Special Agent in Charge Dennis Rice of the Salt Lake City FBI. “Our elderly citizens should be valued, not victimized. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will hold accountable those who prey on society’s vulnerable populations.”
The government alleged in court documents that the state district court appointed Roeber as the guardian and conservator for the victim, identified as Jane Doe, who was unable to care for herself or her financial needs without assistance because she was blind. From about January 2017 until June 2020, Roeber stole $661,549 from Jane Doe and used the money for, among other things, construction projects on lake property at Canyon Ferry, vehicles, furniture, a pontoon boat and cash. None of the expenditures was authorized. Roeber admitted she took advantage of Jane Doe “a lot,” including lying to the victim about her finances. Jane Doe, who is now deceased, lived her final days believing this fraud left her destitute and unable to care for her simple needs.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation.
https://www.shorenewsnetwork.com/2022/08/12/butte-woman-sentenced-to-prison-for-stealing-more-than-600000-from-elderly-blind-victim-under-her-guardianship/
Debra Gean Roeber, 66, pleaded guilty in April to wire fraud and to money laundering.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Judge Christensen also ordered $661,549.00 in restitution.
“Montanans are inherently trusting and the victim in this case trusted Roeber because she was the victim’s guardian. Roeber abused that trust when she defrauded her elderly, lonely, and blind victim, which is not just tragic and egregious, it’s reprehensible and unacceptable. Our office and our law enforcement partners will not tolerate elder abuse, and we will be steadfast in our commitment to protect our most vulnerable friends and neighbors,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
“Senior citizens and those that care about them must be vigilant to prevent future scams targeting elder Americans,” said Andy Tsui, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation Denver Field Office. “As a community, it is our responsibility to care for our elders. As a law enforcement community, it is our duty to hold individuals accountable who abuse their position of trust and steal from the people that are under their care.”
“Motivated purely by greed, Roeber defrauded the victim and betrayed her trust. This was a truly reprehensible crime aggravated by the fact that the victim was blind,” said Special Agent in Charge Dennis Rice of the Salt Lake City FBI. “Our elderly citizens should be valued, not victimized. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will hold accountable those who prey on society’s vulnerable populations.”
The government alleged in court documents that the state district court appointed Roeber as the guardian and conservator for the victim, identified as Jane Doe, who was unable to care for herself or her financial needs without assistance because she was blind. From about January 2017 until June 2020, Roeber stole $661,549 from Jane Doe and used the money for, among other things, construction projects on lake property at Canyon Ferry, vehicles, furniture, a pontoon boat and cash. None of the expenditures was authorized. Roeber admitted she took advantage of Jane Doe “a lot,” including lying to the victim about her finances. Jane Doe, who is now deceased, lived her final days believing this fraud left her destitute and unable to care for her simple needs.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation.
https://www.shorenewsnetwork.com/2022/08/12/butte-woman-sentenced-to-prison-for-stealing-more-than-600000-from-elderly-blind-victim-under-her-guardianship/
HOME REPAIR FRAUD
$43,000 lost in a home repair fraud
August 2, 2022
DECATUR, Ala. (WAFF) - A Huntsville man was arrested for home repair fraud by investigators with the Morgan County District Attorney’s Office on Monday.
Johnny Ray Jordan, 61, was recently arrested in June for two counts of second-degree possession of a forged instrument and two counts of home repair fraud in Decatur.
After reports surfaced of Jordan’s arrest in June, investigators became aware of a similar incident that happened in Laceys Spring in October 2021. A woman reported that she entered into multiple contracts with Jordan to perform contracting work.
Jordan took $43,000 from the woman and the work was never completed.
https://www.waff.com/2022/07/11/huntsville-man-arrested-home-repair-fraud/
Johnny Ray Jordan, 61, was recently arrested in June for two counts of second-degree possession of a forged instrument and two counts of home repair fraud in Decatur.
After reports surfaced of Jordan’s arrest in June, investigators became aware of a similar incident that happened in Laceys Spring in October 2021. A woman reported that she entered into multiple contracts with Jordan to perform contracting work.
Jordan took $43,000 from the woman and the work was never completed.
https://www.waff.com/2022/07/11/huntsville-man-arrested-home-repair-fraud/
ELDER FRAUD
An FBI report found digital scams to be high among people over 60. Senior victims are reported to be in the thousands, and they’ve lost over a billion dollars nationwide.
August 2, 2022
New 8/12/2022
Digital scams increasing among seniors
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) — An FBI report found digital scams to be high among people over 60. Senior victims are reported to be in the thousands, and they’ve lost over a billion dollars nationwide.
“It’s terrible and it’s regrettable and it’s sad for the people that were involved,” said Patrick Kerrigan with Oak Hill Collaborative.
Over 92,000 Americans over age 60 lost $1.7 billion in 2021. This, according to the FBI’s Elder Fraud Report, is a 74% increase from 2020.
Ohio ranks 5th and Pennsylvania 7th for states with scam victims over 60.
“That’s a lot of money affecting a lot of people,” said Kerrigan.
Nearly 14,000 victims over 60 reported tech support scams and lost almost $240 million.
https://www.wkbn.com/news/local-news/digital-scams-increasing-among-seniors/
Digital scams increasing among seniors
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) — An FBI report found digital scams to be high among people over 60. Senior victims are reported to be in the thousands, and they’ve lost over a billion dollars nationwide.
“It’s terrible and it’s regrettable and it’s sad for the people that were involved,” said Patrick Kerrigan with Oak Hill Collaborative.
Over 92,000 Americans over age 60 lost $1.7 billion in 2021. This, according to the FBI’s Elder Fraud Report, is a 74% increase from 2020.
Ohio ranks 5th and Pennsylvania 7th for states with scam victims over 60.
“That’s a lot of money affecting a lot of people,” said Kerrigan.
Nearly 14,000 victims over 60 reported tech support scams and lost almost $240 million.
https://www.wkbn.com/news/local-news/digital-scams-increasing-among-seniors/
GRANDPARENT SCAM
Clever grandma, 73, lured a scammer to her house and got him arrested
January 22, 2022
NEW 8/11/2022
There has been a rise in scams against the elderly during the pandemic. According to the FBI, American seniors were scammed for $1 billion dollars in 2020, up $300 million from the previous year.
To stay connected with friends and family during the pandemic, more seniors joined social media, opening them up to new avenues for fraud.
“The combination of online shopping and social media creates easy venues for scammers to post false advertisements,” the FBI report said. “Many victims report ordering items from links advertised on social media and either receiving nothing at all or receiving something completely unlike the advertised item.”
But when scammers came after 73-year-old Jean Ebbert in Long Island, New York, they had no idea they were dealing with a law enforcement veteran. Ebbert is a former 911 dispatcher, so she knows exactly what a scam looks like.
Ebbert was texting with her son when she got a phone call from someone claiming to be her grandson who said he was in jail after being arrested for DUI. The problem was that Ebbert doesn’t have a grandson old enough to drive.
“I knew he was a real scammer. I just knew he wasn’t going to scam me,” Ebbert told CBS News.
Ebbert decided to play along with the scammer for fun. "It took about three hours of back-and-forth phone calls, maybe 15 phone calls," Ebbert told Fox News.
The fun stopped when her family told her to call the police.
At that point, Ebbert was talking to someone posing as her fake grandson’s lawyer who said he needed $8,000 in bail money. “I told him I had the money in the house, and I figured, he’s not going to fall for that. Well, he fell for that hook, line, and sinker,” she said.
When a man arrived at the door claiming to be a bail bondsman, Ebbert handed him an envelope filled with paper towels and the police sprang out of nowhere to arrest him. They charged 28-year-old Joshua Estrella Gomez with attempted grand larceny in the third degree.
She attributes her 911 training to her success. "You have to think quick. You have to be able to multitask,” she told Fox News. "I had to come up with why I had money in the house."
Local law enforcement are using the incident to remind people that scams against the elderly are rampant.
“Speak to your families. Speak to your neighbors. Visit those that are vulnerable. Let them know, don’t listen to these scams,” Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said. “These individuals sit at home and have nothing else to do but think of a way to take advantage of our elderly.”
Ebbert believes that elderly people should remain vigilant as well.
“I feel like gotcha, and I feel like, like you say, so many people fall for this and you only hear about it on the other end after they’ve lost $8,000,” she said.
It feels incredibly satisfying to see a senior citizen put one over on a scammer. But people should be careful when dealing with criminals and leave the dangerous job of law enforcement to the professionals.
https://www.upworthy.com/grandma-lures-scammer-arrested?rebelltitem=1#rebelltitem1
There has been a rise in scams against the elderly during the pandemic. According to the FBI, American seniors were scammed for $1 billion dollars in 2020, up $300 million from the previous year.
To stay connected with friends and family during the pandemic, more seniors joined social media, opening them up to new avenues for fraud.
“The combination of online shopping and social media creates easy venues for scammers to post false advertisements,” the FBI report said. “Many victims report ordering items from links advertised on social media and either receiving nothing at all or receiving something completely unlike the advertised item.”
But when scammers came after 73-year-old Jean Ebbert in Long Island, New York, they had no idea they were dealing with a law enforcement veteran. Ebbert is a former 911 dispatcher, so she knows exactly what a scam looks like.
Ebbert was texting with her son when she got a phone call from someone claiming to be her grandson who said he was in jail after being arrested for DUI. The problem was that Ebbert doesn’t have a grandson old enough to drive.
“I knew he was a real scammer. I just knew he wasn’t going to scam me,” Ebbert told CBS News.
Ebbert decided to play along with the scammer for fun. "It took about three hours of back-and-forth phone calls, maybe 15 phone calls," Ebbert told Fox News.
The fun stopped when her family told her to call the police.
At that point, Ebbert was talking to someone posing as her fake grandson’s lawyer who said he needed $8,000 in bail money. “I told him I had the money in the house, and I figured, he’s not going to fall for that. Well, he fell for that hook, line, and sinker,” she said.
When a man arrived at the door claiming to be a bail bondsman, Ebbert handed him an envelope filled with paper towels and the police sprang out of nowhere to arrest him. They charged 28-year-old Joshua Estrella Gomez with attempted grand larceny in the third degree.
She attributes her 911 training to her success. "You have to think quick. You have to be able to multitask,” she told Fox News. "I had to come up with why I had money in the house."
Local law enforcement are using the incident to remind people that scams against the elderly are rampant.
“Speak to your families. Speak to your neighbors. Visit those that are vulnerable. Let them know, don’t listen to these scams,” Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said. “These individuals sit at home and have nothing else to do but think of a way to take advantage of our elderly.”
Ebbert believes that elderly people should remain vigilant as well.
“I feel like gotcha, and I feel like, like you say, so many people fall for this and you only hear about it on the other end after they’ve lost $8,000,” she said.
It feels incredibly satisfying to see a senior citizen put one over on a scammer. But people should be careful when dealing with criminals and leave the dangerous job of law enforcement to the professionals.
https://www.upworthy.com/grandma-lures-scammer-arrested?rebelltitem=1#rebelltitem1
RETAIL THEFT
$200,000 recovered in stolen merchandise
August 2, 2022
NEW 8/11/2022
San Francisco police arrested a suspect and recovered nearly $200,000 in stolen merchandise amid a four-month organized retail theft investigation.
San Francisco PD’s Burglary Unit and Organized Retail Theft Task Force launched the investigation in early 2022, specifically focusing on thefts of over-the-counter medications and personal care products. Investigators worked with various businesses to obtain information and observed as locally stolen items were allegedly sold online.
https://www.crimevoice.com/2022/08/01/bay-area-retail-theft-investigation/
San Francisco police arrested a suspect and recovered nearly $200,000 in stolen merchandise amid a four-month organized retail theft investigation.
San Francisco PD’s Burglary Unit and Organized Retail Theft Task Force launched the investigation in early 2022, specifically focusing on thefts of over-the-counter medications and personal care products. Investigators worked with various businesses to obtain information and observed as locally stolen items were allegedly sold online.
https://www.crimevoice.com/2022/08/01/bay-area-retail-theft-investigation/
LOTTERY SCAM
Manchester Man Accused of Leading $5 Million Lottery, Romance Scam Sentenced to 14 Years
August 9, 2022
NEW 8/10/2022
A Manchester man who was accused of being the leader of a lottery and romance scheme that federal officials said stole millions of dollars from hundreds of people has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison.
Between August 2015 and March 2020 Farouq Fasasi, 28, of Manchester, and others ran the schemes that defrauded more than 200 victims across the country of more than $5 million, including a Connecticut victim who lost more than $1 million, according to Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut.
Federal officials said many of the victims were elderly and some victims lost their life savings.
Fasasi and others lived together for a time at a residence on Sherman Avenue in New Haven, which is where many packages with cash, checks and money orders from victims were delivered, according to the U.S. Attorney.
On Feb. 15, Fasasi was found guilty of multiple charges stemming from this scheme.
A judge ordered him to pay restitution in the amount $5.9 million. Fasasi was ordered to report to prison on Sept. 21.
https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/manchester-man-accused-of-leading-5-million-lottery-romance-scam-sentenced-to-14-years/2848986/
A Manchester man who was accused of being the leader of a lottery and romance scheme that federal officials said stole millions of dollars from hundreds of people has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison.
Between August 2015 and March 2020 Farouq Fasasi, 28, of Manchester, and others ran the schemes that defrauded more than 200 victims across the country of more than $5 million, including a Connecticut victim who lost more than $1 million, according to Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut.
Federal officials said many of the victims were elderly and some victims lost their life savings.
Fasasi and others lived together for a time at a residence on Sherman Avenue in New Haven, which is where many packages with cash, checks and money orders from victims were delivered, according to the U.S. Attorney.
On Feb. 15, Fasasi was found guilty of multiple charges stemming from this scheme.
A judge ordered him to pay restitution in the amount $5.9 million. Fasasi was ordered to report to prison on Sept. 21.
https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/manchester-man-accused-of-leading-5-million-lottery-romance-scam-sentenced-to-14-years/2848986/
GRANDPARENT SCAM
A New Scam Could be Hitting Your Email Inbox Soon
August 10, 2022
NEW 8/10/2022
A new type of scam is worrying some residents across the South Plains. The Lubbock Police Department took to Twitter after receiving reports of suspicious emails being sent to many Lubbock residents regarding traffic violations. The tweet shows a screen shot from an email stating to be in connection to a traffic code violation in Lubbock on August 1st. The photo also shows two hyperlinks in blue that will allow you to pay the supposed traffic violation or contest the violation. It is suggested not to click anything in the email.
This email scam is the newest scam to hit the Hub City a week after some reports were made last week to the Lubbock County Sheriff's Office regarding calls from people claiming to be deputies with Lubbock law enforcement. The callers for this scam will address residents by name, in an attempt to sound official and convincing, then tell individuals that they have an arrest warrant. The scammers will then reassure the residents that the warrant can be paid off and should be immediately paid off over the phone so the scammers can get bank, credit card, or even gift card information.
These scams are just one of many scams across the South Plains this summer. One of the oldest scams out there is the Grandparent Scam, where scammers will target older or elderly people and pretend to be a family member in dire need of money. In my personal experience the scammer could be a fake relative from Mexico being detained at an airport for carrying too many items, or gifts, on their person and needs the money to pay for the fees to bring those items over. Scams are not just hitting Lubbock but other counties close by, KAMC news reported that officials in Curry County are seeing these scams.
Law enforcement officials advise citizens to not give any personal information over the phone to anyone they don't know or are not familiar with. The Lubbock County Sheriff's Office wants all citizens to know that no law enforcement agency will ever notify a person by phone of a warrant and will never request payments to pay off tickets or a warrant over the phone or online. Any citizens that have doubts about a call, email, or any other form of contact they receive from law enforcement regarding a warrant is urged to call [local law enforcement].
https://kkam.com/a-new-scam-could-be-hitting-your-email-inbox-soon/
A new type of scam is worrying some residents across the South Plains. The Lubbock Police Department took to Twitter after receiving reports of suspicious emails being sent to many Lubbock residents regarding traffic violations. The tweet shows a screen shot from an email stating to be in connection to a traffic code violation in Lubbock on August 1st. The photo also shows two hyperlinks in blue that will allow you to pay the supposed traffic violation or contest the violation. It is suggested not to click anything in the email.
This email scam is the newest scam to hit the Hub City a week after some reports were made last week to the Lubbock County Sheriff's Office regarding calls from people claiming to be deputies with Lubbock law enforcement. The callers for this scam will address residents by name, in an attempt to sound official and convincing, then tell individuals that they have an arrest warrant. The scammers will then reassure the residents that the warrant can be paid off and should be immediately paid off over the phone so the scammers can get bank, credit card, or even gift card information.
These scams are just one of many scams across the South Plains this summer. One of the oldest scams out there is the Grandparent Scam, where scammers will target older or elderly people and pretend to be a family member in dire need of money. In my personal experience the scammer could be a fake relative from Mexico being detained at an airport for carrying too many items, or gifts, on their person and needs the money to pay for the fees to bring those items over. Scams are not just hitting Lubbock but other counties close by, KAMC news reported that officials in Curry County are seeing these scams.
Law enforcement officials advise citizens to not give any personal information over the phone to anyone they don't know or are not familiar with. The Lubbock County Sheriff's Office wants all citizens to know that no law enforcement agency will ever notify a person by phone of a warrant and will never request payments to pay off tickets or a warrant over the phone or online. Any citizens that have doubts about a call, email, or any other form of contact they receive from law enforcement regarding a warrant is urged to call [local law enforcement].
https://kkam.com/a-new-scam-could-be-hitting-your-email-inbox-soon/
INSURANCE FRAUD
Rocky Mount woman accused of defrauding insurance company of $3,000 by altering car title
August 2, 2022
NEW 8/9/2022
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — A Rocky Mount woman is accused of altering the title on her car to make it appear that she had no liens on the vehicle, state agents say.
North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey said Monday that Kemeya Myesha Pittman, 37, is charged with three felonies: Insurance fraud, attempting to obtain property by false pretense and altering a motor vehicle title.
Special agents with the criminal investigations division of the Department of Insurance say Pittman altered the title on her 2017 Nissan Altima to obtain $3,181 from Discovery Insurance Co. between Oct. 27, 2021, and March 15.
https://www.cbs17.com/news/north-carolina-news/rocky-mount-woman-accused-of-defrauding-insurance-company-of-3000-by-altering-car-title/
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — A Rocky Mount woman is accused of altering the title on her car to make it appear that she had no liens on the vehicle, state agents say.
North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey said Monday that Kemeya Myesha Pittman, 37, is charged with three felonies: Insurance fraud, attempting to obtain property by false pretense and altering a motor vehicle title.
Special agents with the criminal investigations division of the Department of Insurance say Pittman altered the title on her 2017 Nissan Altima to obtain $3,181 from Discovery Insurance Co. between Oct. 27, 2021, and March 15.
https://www.cbs17.com/news/north-carolina-news/rocky-mount-woman-accused-of-defrauding-insurance-company-of-3000-by-altering-car-title/
INSURANCE FRAUD
Department of Justice Strike Force Uncovers $66 Million in Health Care Fraud
August 1, 2022
NEW 8/9/2022
The U.S. Department of Justice announced Wednesday that it has charged 58 Texans as part of an interagency crackdown on illegal opioid distribution and insurance fraud.
The “strike force operation” resulted in 21 cases, including one against a Dallas medical device company that allegedly made millions of dollars in false Medicare claims and a scheme involving Fort Worth pharmacies that are accused of defrauding Tricare, the military’s insurance plan.
The U.S. Department of Justice announced Wednesday that it has charged 58 Texans as part of an interagency crackdown on illegal opioid distribution and insurance fraud.
The “strike force operation” resulted in 21 cases, including one against a Dallas medical device company that allegedly made millions of dollars in false Medicare claims and a scheme involving Fort Worth pharmacies that are accused of defrauding Tricare, the military’s insurance plan.
In total, the schemes cost taxpayers and insurance companies $66 million and resulted in the illegal distribution of 6.2 million pills.
Erin Nealy Cox, the Northern District of Texas’ U.S. attorney, made the announcement flanked by officials from three government agencies and attorneys representing Texas' three judicial districts.
“These days, more than ever, we cannot allow the health care industry to become bloated by fraud and deceit,”.
The prosecutions were the product of a partnership between federal investigators in Texas and Washington. They used data to identify fraudulent insurance claims and root out “pill mills” that have fueled the national opioid epidemic.
https://www.dallasobserver.com/news/us-department-of-justice-strike-force-uncovers-66-million-in-health-care-fraud-11757017
The U.S. Department of Justice announced Wednesday that it has charged 58 Texans as part of an interagency crackdown on illegal opioid distribution and insurance fraud.
The “strike force operation” resulted in 21 cases, including one against a Dallas medical device company that allegedly made millions of dollars in false Medicare claims and a scheme involving Fort Worth pharmacies that are accused of defrauding Tricare, the military’s insurance plan.
The U.S. Department of Justice announced Wednesday that it has charged 58 Texans as part of an interagency crackdown on illegal opioid distribution and insurance fraud.
The “strike force operation” resulted in 21 cases, including one against a Dallas medical device company that allegedly made millions of dollars in false Medicare claims and a scheme involving Fort Worth pharmacies that are accused of defrauding Tricare, the military’s insurance plan.
In total, the schemes cost taxpayers and insurance companies $66 million and resulted in the illegal distribution of 6.2 million pills.
Erin Nealy Cox, the Northern District of Texas’ U.S. attorney, made the announcement flanked by officials from three government agencies and attorneys representing Texas' three judicial districts.
“These days, more than ever, we cannot allow the health care industry to become bloated by fraud and deceit,”.
The prosecutions were the product of a partnership between federal investigators in Texas and Washington. They used data to identify fraudulent insurance claims and root out “pill mills” that have fueled the national opioid epidemic.
https://www.dallasobserver.com/news/us-department-of-justice-strike-force-uncovers-66-million-in-health-care-fraud-11757017
ELDER FRAUD
Utica woman accused of stealing over $36,000 in VA benefits
July 30, 2022
NEW 8/8/2022
A 54-year-old Utica woman has been indicted for allegedly stealing over $36,000 from the federal Department of Veterans Affairs and misappropriating funds from the spouse of a deceased veteran, according to a release from the federal Department of Justice.
Trina Gigliotti was indicted July 14 on federal charges of misappropriation by fiduciary and theft of government property for allegedly stealing VA benefits entrusted to her as a fiduciary and embezzling $36,129.08 in VA disability compensation, according to court records. Prosecutors said the funds were for the legally incompetent spouse of a deceased veteran.
https://www.uticaod.com/story/news/local/2022/07/30/utica-woman-accused-of-stealing-from-veterans-affiars/65387274007/
A 54-year-old Utica woman has been indicted for allegedly stealing over $36,000 from the federal Department of Veterans Affairs and misappropriating funds from the spouse of a deceased veteran, according to a release from the federal Department of Justice.
Trina Gigliotti was indicted July 14 on federal charges of misappropriation by fiduciary and theft of government property for allegedly stealing VA benefits entrusted to her as a fiduciary and embezzling $36,129.08 in VA disability compensation, according to court records. Prosecutors said the funds were for the legally incompetent spouse of a deceased veteran.
https://www.uticaod.com/story/news/local/2022/07/30/utica-woman-accused-of-stealing-from-veterans-affiars/65387274007/
ELDER FRAUD
Indian Citizen Arrested in New Jersey for $2.3 Million Elder Fraud Scheme
August 6, 2022
NEW 8/8/2022
Ashish Bajaj, a 28-year-old Indian citizen, has been arrested and charged in a New Jersey court in connection with a $2.3 million elder fraud scheme, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced.
According to a Department of Justice press release, from April 2020 through July 2021, “Bajaj and his co-conspirators received at least $2.3 million in fraudulently obtained funds by impersonating fraud prevention representatives from banks located in the United States.”
READ MORE: https://americankahani.com/california/indian-citizen-arrested-in-new-jersey-for-2-3-million-elder-fraud-scheme/
Ashish Bajaj, a 28-year-old Indian citizen, has been arrested and charged in a New Jersey court in connection with a $2.3 million elder fraud scheme, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced.
According to a Department of Justice press release, from April 2020 through July 2021, “Bajaj and his co-conspirators received at least $2.3 million in fraudulently obtained funds by impersonating fraud prevention representatives from banks located in the United States.”
READ MORE: https://americankahani.com/california/indian-citizen-arrested-in-new-jersey-for-2-3-million-elder-fraud-scheme/
GRANDPARENT SCAM
Couple arrested after series of fraudulent calls to grandparents.
August 7, 2022
NEW 8/7/2022
Waterloo Regional Police have arrested a 20-year-old and a 16-year-old from Guelph after officers received 14 reports of grandparent fraud in a single day.
In one of the incidents, the victim discovered the scam and called the police.
The 82-year-old Cambridge resident was contacted by scammers who claimed her grandson is in jail and needs $15,000 to be released on bail.
https://newswaali.com/guelph-couple-arrested-after-series-of-fraudulent-calls-to-grandparents-news-waali/
Waterloo Regional Police have arrested a 20-year-old and a 16-year-old from Guelph after officers received 14 reports of grandparent fraud in a single day.
In one of the incidents, the victim discovered the scam and called the police.
The 82-year-old Cambridge resident was contacted by scammers who claimed her grandson is in jail and needs $15,000 to be released on bail.
https://newswaali.com/guelph-couple-arrested-after-series-of-fraudulent-calls-to-grandparents-news-waali/
GRANDPARENT SCAM
Scammer gets $8,500 from woman then wants $20,000 more and gets arrested
August 2, 2022
NEW 8/7/2022
An Ohio woman who police said was part of a bail scam was arrested last week during a sting operation in Mt. Pleasant Township, according to court papers.
A township woman told police she received a call at 10:30 a.m. Thursday by a person claiming to be “Glenn Perkins” who said a family member needed bail money after being put in jail because of their involvement in a vehicle crash. The caller requested $8,500.
About 2 p.m., a woman described as an “agent” of the caller arrived at her house, collected the cash and provided a handwritten receipt, according to court papers.
The next day, the same caller again requested bail money, this time an additional $20,000. After the township woman attempted to withdraw the money and learned it was a scam, state police were contacted.
A trooper waited inside the house while the woman called the person claiming to be Glenn Perkins, who said an “agent” would stop by, according to court papers. When the same woman from the previous day parked outside and approached the house, police arrested her.
https://triblive.com/local/westmoreland/mt-pleasant-township-woman-works-with-police-in-sting-to-nab-agent-in-bail-scam/
An Ohio woman who police said was part of a bail scam was arrested last week during a sting operation in Mt. Pleasant Township, according to court papers.
A township woman told police she received a call at 10:30 a.m. Thursday by a person claiming to be “Glenn Perkins” who said a family member needed bail money after being put in jail because of their involvement in a vehicle crash. The caller requested $8,500.
About 2 p.m., a woman described as an “agent” of the caller arrived at her house, collected the cash and provided a handwritten receipt, according to court papers.
The next day, the same caller again requested bail money, this time an additional $20,000. After the township woman attempted to withdraw the money and learned it was a scam, state police were contacted.
A trooper waited inside the house while the woman called the person claiming to be Glenn Perkins, who said an “agent” would stop by, according to court papers. When the same woman from the previous day parked outside and approached the house, police arrested her.
https://triblive.com/local/westmoreland/mt-pleasant-township-woman-works-with-police-in-sting-to-nab-agent-in-bail-scam/
ELDER FRAUD
‘Scoundrel’ who targeted elderly victims in fictitious social security scheme sentenced to federal prison
August 2, 2022
NEW 8/6/2022
‘Scoundrel’ who targeted elderly victims in fictitious social security scheme sentenced to federal prison, US Atty says.
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Washington man who was targeting innocent, unsuspecting seniors across East Texas was sentenced Tuesday to serve time in federal prison for fraud violations, U.S. Attorney Brit Featherston announced.
Aakash Kalpesh Gandhi, 28, pleaded guilty on Nov. 4, 2021, to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison. A judge also ordered Gandhi who targeted elderly victims in fictitious social security scheme, to be sentenced to federal prison, US Atty says.
https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2022/08/02/scoundrel-who-targeted-elderly-victims-in-fictitious-social-security-scheme-sentenced-to-federal-prison-us-atty-says/
‘Scoundrel’ who targeted elderly victims in fictitious social security scheme sentenced to federal prison, US Atty says.
BEAUMONT, Texas – A Washington man who was targeting innocent, unsuspecting seniors across East Texas was sentenced Tuesday to serve time in federal prison for fraud violations, U.S. Attorney Brit Featherston announced.
Aakash Kalpesh Gandhi, 28, pleaded guilty on Nov. 4, 2021, to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison. A judge also ordered Gandhi who targeted elderly victims in fictitious social security scheme, to be sentenced to federal prison, US Atty says.
https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2022/08/02/scoundrel-who-targeted-elderly-victims-in-fictitious-social-security-scheme-sentenced-to-federal-prison-us-atty-says/
ELDER FRAUD
Large-scale social security scam robbed elderly Texans of more than $800K
August 2, 2022
NEW 8/6/2022
A large-scale social security scam robbed elderly Texans of more than $800K, feds say and has led to at least one death.
BEAUMONT, Texas — Federal agencies believe a large criminal operation based in India is targeting and stealing money from elderly Texans. This large-scale crime has resulted in at least one death.
Aakash Kalpesh Gandhi pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and will spend the next four years and three months in federal prison. A judge also ordered that Gandhi pay restitution to his victims.
U.S. Attorney Brit Featherston said Gandhi was operating out of Washington and stealing from the elderly in east and Southeast Texas.
“Our greatest generation is constantly being attacked by phone and computer scammers," Featherston said. "These crooks have no morals. When you take advantage of the elderly, you are steeping to the lowest of the low."
While law enforcement agencies feel the arrest was a big one, Featherston believes Gandhi is just the tail of a big snake.
"This is a billion-dollar industry in the elder fraud scamming world,” Featherston said,
Featherston said the 19 victims Gandhi dealt with directly lost more than $800,000, and one died.
"Of those 19 victims, one lost over $400,000, suffered mental and physical injuries because of it, and later succumbed and died from those injuries,” Featherston said.
https://www.12newsnow.com/article/news/crime/large-scale-social-security-scam-robbed-elderly-texans-of-more-than-800k/502-08f5ac7e-8031-4375-a037-e6f18d4ced77
A large-scale social security scam robbed elderly Texans of more than $800K, feds say and has led to at least one death.
BEAUMONT, Texas — Federal agencies believe a large criminal operation based in India is targeting and stealing money from elderly Texans. This large-scale crime has resulted in at least one death.
Aakash Kalpesh Gandhi pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and will spend the next four years and three months in federal prison. A judge also ordered that Gandhi pay restitution to his victims.
U.S. Attorney Brit Featherston said Gandhi was operating out of Washington and stealing from the elderly in east and Southeast Texas.
“Our greatest generation is constantly being attacked by phone and computer scammers," Featherston said. "These crooks have no morals. When you take advantage of the elderly, you are steeping to the lowest of the low."
While law enforcement agencies feel the arrest was a big one, Featherston believes Gandhi is just the tail of a big snake.
"This is a billion-dollar industry in the elder fraud scamming world,” Featherston said,
Featherston said the 19 victims Gandhi dealt with directly lost more than $800,000, and one died.
"Of those 19 victims, one lost over $400,000, suffered mental and physical injuries because of it, and later succumbed and died from those injuries,” Featherston said.
https://www.12newsnow.com/article/news/crime/large-scale-social-security-scam-robbed-elderly-texans-of-more-than-800k/502-08f5ac7e-8031-4375-a037-e6f18d4ced77
Elder Fraud
Suburban Chicago Man Sentenced to Three Years in Federal Prison for Laundering Proceeds from Telemarketing Scheme That Defrauded Elderly Victims
July 30, 2022
NEW 8/5/2022
HIRENKUMAR P. CHAUDHARI used a phony Indian passport, false name, and false address to open multiple bank accounts in the United States to receive money from victims of the telemarketing scheme. The scheme involved phone calls from people falsely claiming to be associated with, among other agencies, the Social Security Administration and U.S. Department of Justice, stating that a victim’s identity had been stolen and that it was necessary to transfer money to various bank accounts, including the accounts opened by Chaudhari.
One of the victims was a retired nurse from Massachusetts who transferred a total of more than $900,000 from her bank and retirement accounts to accounts controlled by Chaudhari or others. On April 19, 2018 – one day after Chaudhari opened an account and received a $7,000 transfer from the Massachusetts victim – Chaudhari entered a bank branch in Chicago and withdrew $6,500. Chaudhari engaged in this financial transaction knowing that the money represented proceeds of unlawful activity.
Chaudhari, 29, of Des Plaines, Ill., pleaded guilty last year to a federal money laundering charge. In addition to the three-year prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Sara L. Ellis ordered Chaudhari to pay $6,500 in restitution to the Massachusetts victim.
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndil/pr/suburban-chicago-man-sentenced-three-years-federal-prison-laundering-proceeds
HIRENKUMAR P. CHAUDHARI used a phony Indian passport, false name, and false address to open multiple bank accounts in the United States to receive money from victims of the telemarketing scheme. The scheme involved phone calls from people falsely claiming to be associated with, among other agencies, the Social Security Administration and U.S. Department of Justice, stating that a victim’s identity had been stolen and that it was necessary to transfer money to various bank accounts, including the accounts opened by Chaudhari.
One of the victims was a retired nurse from Massachusetts who transferred a total of more than $900,000 from her bank and retirement accounts to accounts controlled by Chaudhari or others. On April 19, 2018 – one day after Chaudhari opened an account and received a $7,000 transfer from the Massachusetts victim – Chaudhari entered a bank branch in Chicago and withdrew $6,500. Chaudhari engaged in this financial transaction knowing that the money represented proceeds of unlawful activity.
Chaudhari, 29, of Des Plaines, Ill., pleaded guilty last year to a federal money laundering charge. In addition to the three-year prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Sara L. Ellis ordered Chaudhari to pay $6,500 in restitution to the Massachusetts victim.
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndil/pr/suburban-chicago-man-sentenced-three-years-federal-prison-laundering-proceeds