BANGOR — The Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office has arrested an individual involved in an aggressive scam targeting an elderly resident.
The incident began on February 3 when the Sheriff’s Office received a report of fraud.
The scammers contacted the victim multiple times, claiming her financial accounts were compromised and demanding she withdraw funds.
Initially professional, the calls quickly turned aggressive, pressuring the victim to comply.
After repeated calls, the victim handed over a large sum of cash to a person sent to her home by the scammers.
The scammers later increased their demands, prompting further concern.
Deputies and investigators worked on the case for over a week.
On February 13, the scammers called again, claiming someone was en route to pick up a package.
Deputies responded to the home and located an individual in the area connected to the fraud.
The suspect had traveled from Boston in a rented car.
Investigators discovered the individual’s citizenship was in question, leading to contact with the Department of Homeland Security.
The suspect was arrested and taken to the Penobscot County Jail.
They are now in the custody of the Department of Homeland Security, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Authorities warn that scammers often pose as trusted entities, such as government agencies or banks, to gain victims’ confidence.
They may use personal information to appear legitimate and escalate from friendly to aggressive tactics.
Residents are urged not to share personal information or make payments over the phone or in person.
