In a chilling incident that highlights the dangers of international scams, a 76-year-old man from Barnegat, NJ, came dangerously close to losing nearly $750,000 in gold bars before police stepped in and prevented the crime.
The Scam Unfolds:
The victim, who had been targeted by scammers posing as Apple Care representatives, was convinced that he needed to convert his assets into gold bars for safekeeping. The scammer told him that this was a necessary precaution to protect his wealth and ensure it was stored securely at the Federal Reserve.
Following this advice, the elderly man purchased nearly $200,000 worth of gold bars from a legitimate dealer in Las Vegas. He handed the gold over to a man posing as a courier who was supposed to deliver it to the Federal Reserve. However, the scam didn’t end there.
The suspect, using further deception, convinced the victim to purchase an additional $550,000 worth of gold bars, leading him to believe that another delivery was required. At this point, the scam had nearly succeeded, and the victim was on the verge of handing over a total of $750,000 in gold.
Police Intervene:
Fortunately, local authorities were alerted to the situation before the second delivery occurred. Police swooped in just as the two suspects, identified as Chen Tongyong and Jianming Jiang, arrived at the victim’s home. They were arrested at the scene and charged in connection with the scam.
The police were able to recover the gold bars before any further damage could be done, saving the elderly man from a devastating financial loss.
Preventing Future Scams:
This case serves as a stark reminder of the growing threats posed by scammers, especially to vulnerable populations. Police are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Additionally, law enforcement encourages family members and friends to check in regularly with elderly loved ones to ensure they aren’t falling victim to similar schemes.
What You Can Do:
- Be cautious when contacted by unfamiliar people, especially if they ask you to send money or valuables.
- Never hand over money or precious assets without verifying the identity of the recipient.
- Report any suspicious calls or visits to local authorities immediately.
By staying informed and alert, residents can help protect themselves and their loved ones from falling victim to scams of this nature.
Police Contact:
If you suspect you are being targeted by a scam, contact your local police department right away. Stay safe, stay informed, and keep your loved ones protected from fraudsters.
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