On July 1, an elderly Beverly Hills resident was defrauded by an organized crime group posing as financial institution employees and federal government agents. The suspects convinced the victim that his money was unsafe in his bank accounts due to a supposed “virus” or “hack” on his electronic devices. Claiming to act in the victim’s best interest, the suspects instructed him to withdraw his funds and hand them over to “federal agents” for safekeeping.
This growing scam trend has victimized many in the elderly community. In this case, the victim provided a total of $59,000 in U.S. currency to the suspects, who arrived at his residence on two separate occasions to collect the funds. The suspects even manipulated caller ID systems to display the actual name of the victim’s financial institution, further legitimizing their scheme.
Once the victim realized he had been deceived, he contacted the Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD), and a criminal investigation began. Investigators were able to identify two suspects and their vehicles utilizing the city’s network of security cameras, license plate readers and other resources.
A joint effort by BHPD and the Simi Valley Police Department resulted in an enforcement stop of one suspect vehicle in Simi Valley. The sole occupant was identified as one of the individuals who had collected money from the victim and was arrested. At the time of arrest, the suspect was in possession of U.S. currency.
Investigators believe there may be additional victims, as the arrestee was found to have traveled throughout Southern and Northern California conducting similar scams. One outstanding suspect remains, and the investigation continues.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has filed the following charges against Hsinfu Lin, 22, from Richmond, CA:
• CPC 487(a) – Grand Theft
• CPC 532(a) – Theft by False Pretense
• CPC 368(d) – Financial Elder Abuse
BHPD urges the public to remain vigilant against phone and internet scams. Anyone who receives a suspicious call requesting money transfers or cash withdrawals should contact their financial institution directly and report the incident to local law enforcement.
