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Local Man Lost Thousands in Scam

scamSedona AZ (July 19, 2014) – Over the last few weeks, a 64-year-old Prescott Valley man lost in excess of $8700 through an email ruse involving a woman supposedly stranded in Nigeria trying to return to the United States. The victim was convinced he was helping someone in need and wired money in four separate transactions.

Deputies were called to the victim’s home and his wife explained she had just discovered the scam, and the loss of several thousand dollars due to her husband’s actions. The victim admitted he was befriended by a “woman” from Nigeria through email contact weeks prior. They never spoke, communicating by email only.

The woman eventually asked for financial assistance claiming she was stuck in Nigeria after losing her passport, money and other personal property. She requested money for expenses including air fare and processing fees. On July 2, 2014, the victim sent $1000 via Western Union to a requested money drop. Apparently the initial payment was not enough for the suspect as the requests for money continued.

scam fraud logoThe victim complied and wired additional money on July 5, 6, and 10, 2014. The transfer on July 10 was in the amount of $6000 and wired to a bank in Nigeria, with a total loss now of $8700. Finally, on July 11, 2014, after receiving a request for $4000, the victim told his wife about the relationship and payments, and she immediately contacted YCSO.

Although embarrassed by the incident, they asked YCSO to share this story so others may avoid the scam. The couple are on a fixed income, and this loss has been very difficult.

These scams are difficult to investigate because they generally involve the use of public computers in countries where law enforcement intervention is rare. There has been limited success in prosecuting some cases in the past with assistance of federal law enforcement and Interpol.

Much of the data received by federal law enforcement from U.S. victims comes from the website www.ic3.gov. This site is a clearing house which allows victims to file a complaint while the general public can obtain information on the latest scams.

As always, please share this information with family and friends who may be vulnerable to such tricks in the hope of preventing more victims.

Citizens can contact the police or local Sheriff’s Office with information or questions. The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office (Arizona), the county reporting this scam, may be reached at 928-771-3260.

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For the best Arizona news and views, read www.SedonaEye.com daily!

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