A Pennsylvania man is accused of pretending to be a federal agent in order to scam an elderly couple out of more than $60,000 in cash.
Instead, when Dipen Patel showed up at a Galloway Township home, police were there to arrest him.
A woman called Galloway police at 4 p.m. Tuesday, saying her parents had withdrawn a large amount of money from their bank account at the behest of a man claiming to be a federal agent.
While the woman talked to police, her parents continued speaking with the "agent," who told them that numerous bank accounts had been open using the victim's Social Security number.
In order to protect their money, the victim was told to empty the bank account and turn over the cash to an individual who would deposit the money into a secure account, police said.
Galloway police coordinated with the woman and her parents, maintaining surveillance on the victim's residence, according to the report.
About an hour after police received the report of the scam, a vehicle arrived at the victim’s address on East Ridgewood Avenue to retrieve what they believed to be more than $60,000 in cash.
Police immediately arrested the man inside the vehicle, identified as 51-year-old Patel, of Bensalem, Pa.
“This case is another reminder of the ongoing elderly scams that occur on a daily basis throughout the country,” Chief Richard Barber said. “Working with our public, we were able to stop this crime and not just protect this victim, but potential future victims as well.”
Patel was placed into custody and transported to the Galloway Township Police Department for further questioning.
He was released on a summons pending several search warrants that are pending in the ongoing investigation. He is currently charged with third-degree theft by unlawful taking.
The case is reminiscent of one involving a Jersey City man accused of trying to steal $20,000 from an elderly Egg Harbor Township couple in April. That case is still open.
The Galloway Township Police Department would like to commend our victim and caller for recognizing this scam and contacting our department. The senior citizens in our community are a main target for scammers, particularly through telephone conversations. Remember, law enforcement agencies will never contact you over the phone demanding cash payments.
Here are several indicators you may be the target of a scam:
1. You are asked to withdraw a large amount of cash from your bank account to make a payment.
2. You are asked to purchase gift cards and provide the number and PIN to someone over the phone.
3. You are asked to confirm your credit card information over the phone.
If you have any concerns if it may be a scam, immediately hang up and contact police.
