Lynnwood detectives, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service, have arrested a 41-year-old man in connection with a sophisticated scam that defrauded retired victims of over $600,000, according to the Lynnwood Police Department.
The suspect was taken into custody in Baldwin Park, California, on December 19, after Lynnwood detectives developed probable cause for his arrest on charges of first-degree theft and first-degree criminal impersonation.
The investigation revealed that the victims were targeted through a 1-800 number and manipulated into believing they were speaking with a U.S. Treasury Agent. Police said the victims, who are elderly, were scammed out of more than $600,000.
Following his arrest, the suspect was booked into the Los Angeles County Jail.
On January 23, he was extradited to Washington State and booked into the Snohomish County Jail.
The Lynnwood Police Department is reminding the community that these types of scams are common, often sophisticated, and can seem legitimate. They frequently target the elderly and vulnerable adults.
Law enforcement agencies will not call asking community members for money.
“If you are contacted by a person identifying themselves as law enforcement asking for money, it is recommended to never disclose any personal information,” the department said.
Police also recommend asking the caller for their name, phone number, and the agency they represent, then hang up. Police recommend verifying the caller’s information by contacting a published contact number for the agency.
Authorities stress the importance of never giving personal information over the phone unless the caller’s validity has been confirmed.
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