Do you remember who it came from? What was on the envelope? >> It was like it was a blank envelope with the clear slip and it was a paper in front of it. >> Why did they leave? >> Because we was running late picking up my kids from school. >> So why didn't you go pick up your kids from school? Then >> you would get a portion of that money and they would get the rest. And all you had to do was go in here, show your ID. >> There are roughly two types of fake check scams. The brainies who successfully cash out thousands [music] of dollars and the amateurs who pull dumb scams and get caught on BODY CAM. >> STOP [screaming] TOUCHING ME. >> I KNOW. STOP TOUCHING ME. >> A $50,000 check was deposited into my account that I did not deposit. I didn't sign off on anything, no nothing. >> My mom, >> look, I'mma get your mom, but you don't have to calm down. >> I'm calm, but I didn't do anything. Here are the top five dumbest fake check scams caught on body cam. The first fake check scammer is Jermaine, a dumb fraudster who tried to cash out $14,000 by stealing someone else's identity of solutions. >> Supposed to be for him. >> For him, for his business, which is Tech Connect. >> Okay. >> This guy is saying that he owns Tech Connect, which he does not. >> Who was the check made out to? It's It was supposed to be made out to me, but he told me that they that he used my the my business the my business name instead. >> You're telling me it's this it's this huge coincidence that the gentleman who owns a company called Tech Connect had a check stolen in the same exact amount that you did work for. >> In February of 2025, Jermaine English was arrested at a local bank after his elaborate fraud scheme was uncovered by bank officials. On that very day, Jermaine had visited the bank with the intention of cashing out a stolen check worth $14,000. However, when the bank noticed some red flags, they immediately alerted the police. >> Hello. >> I'm trying. That's all I am trying to figure out. Boy, >> go in real quick. Just put your hands behind your back. Don't even stand up. All right, just we're going to talk. We're going to talk. We're going to have a conversation, but put your hands behind your back. Don't stand up, >> dude. I'm I'm trying to figure out what's going on, too. >> Put your hands behind your back. >> My Hold on, dude. My kid is out in the car. My kids We'll discuss that. Okay. >> What? What's going on? Why am I >> If you stand up, you're going to get tased. >> Dude, I've been in a car accident. Hold on. Hold on. Hold on. That hurt. I was just trying to tell you that hurt. I had >> Put your other hand behind your back. >> What is going on? What did I do? What is What's wrong? I'm trying to verify everything that's going on my damn self. >> Okay, stand up for me now. >> All right. I just showed every >> I got one detained. >> Detained for what? We're going to have a seat. >> What? What did I do? >> I'm sorry. I'm just trying to ask you what's going on. >> We're going to have a seat. Okay. >> They say they said you're trying to deposit a fraudulent check. >> I'm not though. >> Sit down. >> I'm trying to find out what's going on. That's what I'm asking. Will >> you hang out with him? >> Okay. What's going on? >> This check >> he deposited into his account in September. He was coming in here. He was trying to see about possibly getting money out of this account. Brandy up the line, she sent me the account number, said, "Take a look at this." He deposited it into a personal account. He says he owns Tech Connect. He is attempting to get a thing for Tech Connect through the Secretary of State. But I went a step further. I looked up Tech Connect. They're already registered with the Secretary of State. I printed it right here. >> Okay. Same address for Tech Connect here and here. >> Okay. >> Okay. I looked them up. Google called the guy who actually owns this guy here. >> Pryin. This company. This was a check for a job that he did for this company. >> He did. >> No. >> Okay. >> Owen Pryin. >> Okay. >> He never received the funds. >> The check was stolen. >> Okay. He was able to verify the exact amount of the check that he was supposed to receive, >> everything, who it was coming from, where the company was out of, the address of House Solutions >> supposed to be for him. >> For him, for his business, which is Tech Connect. >> Okay. >> This guy is saying that he owns Tech Connect, which he does not. >> Okay. >> He's trying to establish. >> Do you have a contact phone number for him? Yeah, I just called him and he asked me if he needed to come down here. I was trying to be careful about how much I with cuz I had him in the office. >> Okay. >> So, um >> and that's all you got for him is a name and a phone number. >> That's his name, his phone number. I got his his addresses up here. >> Do you have like Okay. Oh, you just Googled it? >> I I Googled him. Um, and that's his ID. >> That's his ID. >> Okay. >> Um, but the check is obviously stolen. >> According to the official, Jermaine claimed to have received the money for a car repair job. But when he was asked to present documents proving that this was legitimate, he had nothing to show. >> The true owner of Tech Connect receives his mail at this P.O. box. They've had mail stolen, he said, there before at the um post office in Maretta. >> This was a check that was written to his business, was stolen. He never received it. Okay. >> He already got um was getting the owner of the check. This guy >> has Solutions. This guy out here says it's for jobs that he did tearing apart some cars. Has Solutions provides computer chip connectors for circuit boards. That's what they do. They have nothing to do with car, you know, repair or, you know, rip out. >> All this stuff from doing car work. from doing car work. $14,250 systems and stuff for homeless shelters and stuff like that. Um he just told me he's just been >> He just told me that he had proof that he had the money from this house solutions in California. I asked him to provide it and he couldn't. He's like scrolling through his phone. Oh, I have a contract. We ripped the inside interiors out of six cars and redid the interiors and that's what the money was for. >> Do you have your ID? Would you buy a chance? Yeah. >> Can you He said he's got his kid out in the car. Can you go confirm? >> He's got his girlfriend. >> Oh, his girlfriend. >> Yeah. >> Oh, so it's not just his kid out in the car. >> No, I had to shut him out there. >> Thank you. >> You're welcome. >> So anyway, um I had Randy contact our corporate security. He said, "Call law enforcement. Have them arrested." I mean, it's clearly a stolen check. >> Yeah. What's a good uh phone number for your office here? Uh Awesome. Thank you so much. >> You're welcome. >> On one hand, Jermaine said he was in the business of repairing cars. And on the other, he owned a tech company. The lack of harmony between these two claims was one of the telltale signs that he had a fishy operation going on. >> Where did you get the check? >> I got it from Sadian. Like >> from who? >> Sad. My the contractor. He's a Hispanic guy. probably about his build like not not talking junk dude but like a little bit heavier. Uh straight up like I've been doing work with him since I got out in April. Like I've done literally this would have been my third job with him. >> Who was [snorts] the who was a check made out to >> again? Now I've been trying to get my own entity going called Tech Connect. I wanted to get my own business going. You can I like I said you all my question >> that's that's >> who was the check made out to >> it's it was supposed to be made out to me but he told me that they that he used my the in my business the my business name instead. So I said well I okay well is that is that going to cause me a problem? He said, "You told me no, it shouldn't as long as I had if I still had the contract that he had me and literally the other worker signed right in front of him." Like I said, I said, "Yes, sir. I still have my file." Uh he said, "Well, you you might need to email that to the bank." Straight up. You can ask Jamal down at the Mlin Crossing the Mlin Crossing thing uh the Mlin Crossing Bank uh regions. I sent it to him. He said, "Jermaine, this one is although we see that this is you doing the business as it's not enough. You got to go down to the Secretary of State and you got to register with him." I said, "All right, cool. Well, uh, what you told me to do online?" >> So, let me let me let me ask you this. You have not filed a business as Tech Connect. You do not own a business called Tech Connect. Yes or no? >> I mean, >> yes or no. Do you own a business called Tech Connect? >> No. No. I mean, no, sir. No. No. >> So, >> well, it's a yes or no question. >> I don't know, though. Correct. I'm not. >> The answer is no. You don't own a business called Tech Connect. >> I just Hold on. Now, my next question is there is a gentleman that does own a business called Tech Connect. Okay. >> Hold on. After speaking with him, he has confirmed that he was supposed to receive a check in the amount of $14,245 that he did not receive. Do you understand how that looks? >> I I didn't I didn't do I Bro, I didn't take nobody's nothing. I promise I I can show you my work, bro. I've got pictures for me. >> All right. >> I I swear to God, yo, like I promise I can please just show you real quick, please. You can look. I've got >> Please can I show you? Dude, Mel, >> so you are you are under arrest now. >> Okay. >> Can he But he So this guy's been lying to us. This is It's not just me. >> What? >> Stand up for me. Go on out that door. Hey, >> Melvin, can I not call him and him sell y'all that >> do that? We're going to walk out the door, walk down the stairs, >> Melvin, I didn't bring a check in here or nothing like that. I just I came to make sure that this guy I wasn't doing scamming mean. >> Okay. >> Jermaine evidently hadn't thought his scheme through before stepping into the bank. And at this point, nothing he could say or do could help his messy situation. >> Go down those stairs. >> Like, man, what do I how do what do I do to prove that again that that that's not what it is? >> Well, why would the check >> be stolen? >> I I don't I didn't I didn't do none of that, though. >> So, you're tell So, hold on. You're telling Hold on. Hold on. Listen. You're telling me it's this it's this huge coincidence that the gentleman who owns a company called Tech Connect had a check stolen >> in the same exact amount that you did work for. >> But it's not that the the amount was not just for me. It's for everybody else that's under me, too. My other >> Who's under you? >> Me. My boy Eric. Uh my boy Excuse me. I'm not trying to rhyme, but then that's my boy Eric, my boy Derek, uh my sister. We We all Jews. Like we all do. >> You all steal checks or >> y'all deposit stolen checks? >> No, I didn't. I did not even know Melvin on Melvin. I'm I got five kids, bro. I dead ass did not know like I I work on the side with him on the again on the side. My radio 95 is full of counting animal shows. Melba, can you please like I I got to I need to figure out something like like like can you like you see dude like I've got my car all that right there. I'm not making none of this up. I didn't you got rubber gloves for uh cuz again in my work I've got to keep if my hands get dirty I've got I've got a grip uh ply and all that like I can show y'all everything like can I at least show you the contract that he that we signed so y'all can see that it it was legit work that we just Finish. >> Please, Melvin. >> You're under arrest. >> But what? For what, though? I didn't do nothing. >> Melvin, I didn't do nothing. >> Have a seat, >> Melvin. Please. Can you talk to me? >> Have a seat. Have a seat. Yeah, I'll talk to you. I got to get in the car, right? So, have a seat, >> Melvin. I didn't >> We're going to talk in the car. Hold on. Put your feet in. But I I don't >> Put your feet in the car, >> Melvin. I'm sorry, y'all, but I'm I didn't do >> Put your feet in. >> Mel man, please. Melvin, >> hold on. Put your knee in. >> Melvin, please. Melvin, look. I'm I'm I'm on my bike. I'm not trying to get my knee out the way. >> Okay, >> I'm helping. Please. >> Following Jermaine's arrest, the cops had to break the news to his partner who appeared to be in the dark about his illegal dealings. >> When did he tell you about Tech Connect? >> He said he's been in the works for something for about like I want to say probably like the last couple of months. He's like, "But I need to go up to the Secretary of State to get I was like, "Well, they can just mail that to you in the next seven days." And he was like, "Well, I need it today." He's like, "I need to go and get it today." And I was like, "Okay, well, I didn't have to go and do that. I didn't need something abruptly." So, I'm like, "Okay, well, whatever you got to do." He's like, "You want to ride with me to go so I can go do it since you know exactly what I'm supposed to be doing?" I'm like, "Yeah, that's fine." In the car handling business calls. And then I didn't even see the police. I literally was I didn't even see any of this. He just called me and was like, "Hey, can you come in here and explain to them what it is that I'm trying to do cuz they think I'm lying." And I'm like, "Okay, well, who do I got to talk to?" And I was greeted by law enforcement saying, "Can I have your ID?" And I was like, "I don't feel comfortable with giving you my ID because I didn't do anything wrong." >> Right. >> So I was like, "Do you suspect me of a crime?" Cuz I didn't do anything. >> I absolutely understand that. >> That's that's all. And now I see everything is just coming full circle. >> Is there any other questions I can answer for you today? >> Can I speak to him? >> Yeah. Come on. >> So I'm going to roll his window down. He's on the other side of my car. Mom, I'm not making this up. Mom, please look at me. No, I'm not making this up, Mom. Mom, I'm telling you the truth, Mom. Come on. >> All I'm going to say to you is they're going to charge you with fraud and I'm going to let you back down. I'm telling you that that's what that's this is what's going to happen cuz they do this. This is something that >> But I didn't I didn't do the I didn't do it. >> Okay. Well, they have But the fact that they have proof, >> but I didn't do it. I didn't do it. Okay. Do you have proof that you did not do it? Because now where did you >> I was tell I tried to show it's on my phone. >> Okay. Where's your phone? >> He just they they took it from me. >> That's been confiscated or do can I have your property and all that stuff? Do you want to release your property and whatnot to me? You want to take the stuff out? She can have it cuz I don't want them to impound your car and all that other stuff. So I will take it back to my >> you want another >> but my I I didn't do it. >> Okay. >> Like also I legitely did not do it. You know I didn't do it. >> All I am saying is that >> you I I do this for a living. >> I know. That's what I did. If you think I would exactly you think I would just jump and do something stupid like that like >> I would hope not. All I'm saying is this is a This is a lot. This is This is a lot is what I'm saying to you. And the And how heavy this going to come that they going to try to come down on your ass. >> Mom, I didn't even do that. >> You forget I work for you. I do not. No, I don't know. You >> I know it. I know what you're telling me, Mom. But again, if I I did not do it. I did not I did not do Monday. >> Okay. >> You know, I didn't mean that. >> So, you didn't do any of these things. All I'm asking for is do you have the proof to justify your innocence is all I'm saying. And if you have it, where is it that I can get it? Because you already know since you're on my insurance plan, you have legal representation regardless because I pay for legal. I pay for everything. >> Right. Right. No, I need all of the information that I'm all of the information that you have. I am going to need to have to be able to represent you in some type of way >> to be able to get to where you're going to to to get you going forward. That's that's what I need. >> Okay. Okay. I don't know the number by heart, but Okay. >> Apparently, the suspect was no stranger to law enforcement, and this fraud scheme would only be another addition to his long list of past crimes. >> Taking the vehicle. >> Yeah, she's taking the vehicle. I'm taking it off. Yeah. >> Hey, you mean taking it out? What? >> You want your OWN CAR WITHOUT IT? >> OH, NO. I'm not. But that's what I'm saying. Can't show the secretary of state that I That's all I was. >> Yeah. Yeah. But what I'm trying to tell you is the information that he got showed that this business been in effect since before you was born. >> Again, I'm not I never denied that. When the woman said that to me, I asked her then like what what is your what do I do? What's going on? >> Okay. Yeah, I need to I need to again >> to be able to to get your case in charge. >> You going to need to say something for documentation cuz I'm going have to provide it. >> It should be right there. You know what I mean? for they they they're taking you because they did not confirm paperwork stating that you >> I didn't show my war. >> I didn't I didn't do that. I was doing it. I literally thought I got a warrant for what? For where? >> Uh out of county. >> No. Oh, wait. Wait. What's the active date on it? What's the What's the date that's active on it? >> September 7th. >> No, I literally I just have you talk to Miss Child. >> Yes, I literally last time you said last week. Literally, she came to my huh to appear. >> I I [screaming] the thing that I just did the driver's license. I just paid the $65 to him. >> The original charge is violation of attacking biting animal ordinance. Go get the I told you. Mom, they told Listen, they told me that they could not find that case and I've been looking for >> I I gave you paperwork, bro. I >> I know. And I told you was on 74733733. >> Yo, I just literally, but I just paid for it. >> You didn't pay FOR THAT? YOU PAY FOR THIS. THIS IS ANOTHER FEEDING. >> YEAH. NO, I'm talking about I literally showed them everything about Rosie and all that. The ladies graduation. I did that already. >> You didn't have to do none of that. CUZ WHEN I WENT UP THERE for her, you didn't have to >> because she didn't invite nobody in yours. She just got out on yours. They wanted to be sure that she wasn't like sickly and ALL THAT. >> NO, IT'S THE ONE THAT I WAS SAYING TO YOU. >> NO, THAT'S WHAT I'M SAYING. I did go. >> I don't want to argue. I'm just telling you like this is this I told you to go to court for >> I didn't go to court. >> No, cuz you didn't go. I remember you saying you did not go because they said that there was no case blah blah blah blah blah. >> Right. But I again that's when that was that time. But when you said what you said, I took heed to it and I went down there myself. >> Okay. >> I went down there. I showed them the video. >> They got the information and they So right now you about to go to Pauly, right? They going to have their charge, right? And then when Paul decide to release you for the legal information that that whatever it is, they going to release you to Cob County and Cob County going to hold you and they going all they got to do is look at look at the you can tell them all that they want. You all they got to do but they going to do their job. >> But I did >> somebody did their job in county because you didn't come to court and they decided to put a warrant out because you didn't come to court. >> But I did go to court. I literally I I matter of fact I got the papers. >> Where the papers at? That's what I'm saying. Think about it. Where the papers at? Because all this information I'm going >> I think I think I sent a copy to you the rehab. I think I sent a copy to him and >> a copy of what? What paper? What paper? What paper? >> The the the finishing the thing that >> call your rehab the sober living place to let them know that this is happening to you right now. I mean, I'm pretty sure Yeah, I have to let them >> I just deleted all the mother off my phone. >> Upon having the realization that he was doomed and his girlfriend could do nothing to save him this time around, Jermaine completely lost it and broke down. >> It wasn't me. I swear it wasn't me. Oh my god. [screaming] That's all I was trying to do. You can call down to the branch. Please just call down to the bridge. You could ask him. [snorts] like you can call you can call from uh you can see hear from you can hear from another business operator or whatever that I that is I'm telling you the truth it was never me I never deposited like I did not deposit nothing that's what I was trying to find out this is crazy like I didn't do Jermaine was charged with fraud forgery and grand theft at least Jermaine was responsible for digging his own grave unlike 18-year-old Serenity who was ditched by her team of fraudsters after getting caught trying to pull a dumb check scan >> where'd your friend Um, my cousin. >> Yeah. >> Um, I'm assuming to the car. Is that I'm sorry. Is there a problem? >> Were your friends going to come back and get you or were they going? >> I don't know what's happening. >> What the [ __ ] I was left. >> That young woman? >> Yes, sir. >> Never heard of her. >> Certainly didn't write you a check. >> Okay. >> On January the 2nd, 2023, police officers were dispatched to a bank in regard to a fraud in progress. According to reports, 18-year-old Serenity went into the establishment with a supposed cousin to cash a fraudulent check. But when the cops arrived, Serenity's partner in crime fled the scene, leaving the teenager to deal with the consequences alone. >> You got your ID on you? >> Um, it's right there. >> I'm sorry. Is there a problem? >> Yeah. Where'd your friend go? >> Um, my cousin. >> Yeah. >> Um, I'm assuming to the car. Is I'm sorry. Is there a problem? >> Yeah. Where'd she go? >> Hey, what's the What's the issue? >> Well, she just left without you. Where'd she go? >> She went back to I'm actually supposed to be leaving now because I have to go pick up um my nephew. But what's going on? >> Okay. Where'd she go to? >> I just said to the car, "Sir, what is going on again?" >> She get she got in a car in the middle of the road. >> I'm sorry. In the in the middle of the road. >> Yeah. When she saw me saw me, she ran out of here. >> Okay. So they left me. >> Yeah. >> I don't even have my phone on me. >> Okay. >> What's your name? Serenity. >> Serenity. Yes. >> Okay. >> There's a case worker that's following her. >> Hi. How you doing? >> How you doing? >> Yeah, you can slide that. >> What's that? >> So here's the You can slide that. Um, so Jim Milford, I told him the call. He's our corporate security. Okay. >> Um, so the other day we've had a very we get the similar situations all the time where >> it's kind of like what happens is they get these fraudulent checks. They put enough money and they account try to cash the check against it. >> Um, and then they appear fraudulent. So we had one the other day that came in 911. >> Was it the same? different a different girl. I imagine it's like the same probably the same group >> at your branch. >> Was that >> at your branch? >> Yeah, there was another girl here yesterday and um she went to Golf Gate. She left [cough and clears throat] here. She went to Golf Gate and they called the police. So now, >> okay, >> she's here. We got information from another branch that said that she was there. Um and what's been happen is they have a bunch of different checks. So I don't know about this one specifically, but it's usually like the same thing. So, um, hang on. I got my >> corporate security wanted to know when you were here. So, let me >> cuz he's got the information for another branch. They just said be on the lookout because what they do is they hit all the branches. >> Yeah. >> Um, and then they have different checks. So, and then we were trying to stall her and that's when he came in that kid and he's like, "What's taking so long?" And I was just trying to stall her. >> Okay. Was that a male or female? I couldn't tell. >> Oh, I don't know. I thought it was a boy. >> Yeah. I'm not sure >> what the the Oh. Oh, I don't know. I'm sorry. I thought it was a boy. I didn't really. >> Based on the explanation given to the police, this fraud scheme operated on a medium scale involving multiple people and different bank branches. >> So, just to ma'am, I'm kind of >> Yeah. Yeah. So, it's pretty common thing that happens at the banks. Um, so they have an account with us. So, there's like a ring. >> She does. Okay. >> Yeah. So they like have like a ring of people and what they do is they deposit like cash in the account like 900 bucks. Okay. >> They got multiple checks. I don't know if you can see this one. I can show you a picture. I couldn't print it any better, but they went she went to Cortez Road at like earlier today at like 12 1:00 today. >> Okay. >> And [clears throat] she had a different completely different check for $743. So what they try to do is they say, "What's my available balance?" Oh, I have $900 in there. So they know about that $900. Sometimes banks don't know any better and what to do. They'll cash the check against the $900 saying that they have nothing to cover. >> We're we're kind of wondering though how they're do you have any idea how they're getting these checks? >> I mean, is does this Sharon Jones report this check stolen or is it a I mean, is it >> um Well, Lisa Francis is calling me because there's a different check that she had. So, it's completely different person. Yeah. So, I don't She's going to give me the details on that one. >> And is that one a branch? I haven't called and verified this one yet, but >> um hang on, let me show you. >> So, Surren has an account. >> Okay, she's claiming >> see. So, Lisa, the branch manager >> cuz they always look like this. It's almost like the same handwriting had somebody same thing um >> yesterday that came in. They hit they hit all of our locations. So they hit three or four locations with three or four different checks. They're trying to get us to cash it and then they pulled her 900 out and then they skip down and then they're gone. >> Although Serenity was said to have been operating [snorts] under a group of fraudsters, she was unfortunately the scapegoat and would end up taking the fall for the entire crew. As long as I keep the bag to go. [snorts] >> Yeah, we're going to step in here. Hold on one second. Okay. So, I'm going to assume you know what's going on. I'm going to read you uh your Miranda rights real quick. [snorts] >> It's not mine. >> Okay, hold on. What's >> in my bird? >> Fair enough. >> What's funny? >> Nothing. >> I'm going to read you your Miranda warning. Okay. >> Okay. >> You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in the court of law. You have the right to talk to an attorney and have him or her present with you before and during any questioning. If you cannot afford to hire an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you at no cost to you before and during questioning if you wish. You can decide at any time to exercise these rights and not answer my questions or make any statements. Do you understand each of these rights I've explained to you? >> Yes, sir. >> Having these rights in mind, you wish to talk to us. >> I'm sorry. >> Having these rights in mind, do you wish to talk to us? >> No. I would like to have like a family member or something with me. >> How old are you? >> Thank you. >> Okay. You're an adult. >> I know. >> Okay. >> I have a sister-in-law that works at a coral facility. >> Mhm. >> I would like to get in contact with her. >> Well, here here's what's going to happen. You're going to be going to jail today. Okay. >> Regarding what's what's going on here if you'd like to talk, >> but I'm still going to go to jail. >> Yes, you're right. >> How like like what's going to happen to me? >> Well, you're going to go to jail. You're going to be bumped. And >> like with girls. >> Yes. You're an adult. >> Okay. What if they beat me up or something? >> You'll be protected. >> Protected. Were your uh were your friends going to come back and get you or were they going? >> I don't know what's happening. What the [ __ ] I was >> Well, do you want to explain to her what you're being charged with? >> Uh, you're being charged with uttering a check right here belong to you and was not written to you. Correct. in charge of it. >> In a few seconds, the officers would discover that Serenity had been hiding something far worse in her possession. >> And now I'm going to be charged with the gun because they put a gun in my purse. >> They put a what? Holy [ __ ] they did. >> Yep, they did. >> Do you want to tell us about this? I think I was fast. >> You were set up. >> I don't know. I'm just going along with >> Hey, I'm going to make a phone call. >> Oh my god. [clears throat] >> Yep. >> Can we please call somebody? >> Uh, hey, a bullet just fell down there. You want to grab that for me? Yep. Okay. So, you wanted a lawyer. You didn't want to speak. So, now we're not asking you any questions. Okay. >> Well, what questions are you going to ask? >> We I can't ask them because you already determined you did not want to speak to us. >> No, I don't want this to happen like this. >> Well, this is happening at this point. >> I can tell you. >> What do you want to ask me about it? >> So, at this point, so I I'll tell you. >> Please don't talk to me like this. I'm not a bad kid. >> Okay. >> Okay. First of all, you're a young woman now. You're not a kid at all. >> Yes, sir. I understand. >> We spoke to We spoke to >> Don't ask questions. >> Please do. I I'm apologize. This just >> This just escalated. [clears throat and snorts] >> So, Miss Jones Miss Jones, >> that young woman. >> Yes, sir. Never heard of him. >> Certainly didn't write you a check. >> Okay. >> So, you're being charged with that? >> I understand. >> Do you have a concealed weapons permit? >> I do not. >> Okay. So, now you're being charged with carrying a concealed firearm. >> I understand. >> Okay. By any chance, are you a convicted felon? >> No. >> Okay. Well, then you won't be charged with that cuz those are the two charges you're looking. How long I started that? This is crazy. I've never been to jail. I just got out of foster care. >> Oh my god. I was just at work at the correctional officer. back up to 61. >> Could you >> Is there any chance that you can put my hair up? >> Ma'am, I I don't do hair. Just >> We'll We'll brush it away when we get to jail. >> As Serenity struggled to come to terms with the amount of trouble that she had gotten into, things continued to get much worse for her. >> Any paraphernalia in here? No, >> don't make me dump this stuff all over. >> Oh, wow. I'm really bad. I know. Oh my god. How many bullets were in it? >> It was loaded with one in the clip. >> Isn't that like extra years of every bullet? >> I don't believe so. >> I don't believe so. serial number. Oh. Uh-oh. This just gets worse and worse. >> What happened? >> Possession of a firearm with an altered serial number. >> Oh my god. >> I'm going to have to look it up. But I think that's a charge, too. >> This is not fair to me. >> What? >> Uh, it's an altered serial number. Possession of a firearm with an ultra serial number is a charge also, right? >> Is it? >> Yeah, it is. >> What about possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony? >> That's what I sound like. >> So, you've got CCW fire. >> So, you're trying to add to our design. >> You're going to have like five. >> Why are you trying to make it work? >> You got uttering. Conceal concealed phone, >> please. >> Now that she began to envision the horror that awaited her in the near future, she hoped some damage control would help make things better. >> I have a question. >> 61. >> So being that I've never been in this situation before >> and this since I know I'm doing it, so I take responsibility for it. Even like the gun is crazy. like this is not fair because I have nothing to do with that and yeah, I'll take responsibility but not like there's no way I can get out of it because it was in my purse. >> Listen, at some point someone's going to question you. Okay. >> Of course. >> If you don't want to talk to us right now, that's that's just fine. >> I can talk. I like what do you want me to tell you? >> You didn't want to talk. >> I want to talk. I didn't know like this was going to happen. >> This is crazy. Listen, >> I'm only 18. >> The law takes us very seriously. When we read you, Miranda, you [snorts] say you don't want to speak until you have a lawyer. We're pretty much hands off. >> I didn't mean with a lawyer, but like with like somebody I'm very vulnerable like I've never like I just don't know what to do. >> Okay. [clears throat] So, are you saying that you do not want a lawyer, but you do want to speak to us? >> Well, like what does speaking to you mean? >> Explaining your side of this. >> Of course I do. >> I will speak to you and say my side cuz I deserve that. >> Your exact words when I held this purse was it's not mine. >> This >> I said what is it? I said, "What's not yours?" You said, "What's in that purse?" That indicates to me you knew what was in that purse. >> Yes, sir. >> Okay. I'm not going to ask you questions, but if you want to tell me a story, go ahead. >> No, it's not a story. I'm I'm saying it is in my purse. >> Okay. >> I knew it was in my purse, but like >> I wasn't using it. I was >> You weren't And I'm not accusing you of using it. I know, but like they had just put in my pur first for a second. >> They they >> What's What's our status? Are we >> We're ready to roll. >> You ready? >> Yeah. Thank you very much. Um, you don't have anything on you? Any anything illegal? Drugs, knives, anything else? No. >> Okay. If you get to the jail and you have something on you, it's going to be another felony charge. Yes. >> Okay. In the end, Serenity was charged with uttering a forged instrument and possession of a concealed firearm. Next is a case of a desperate scam artist who thought she could con a porn shop owner by claiming to have an unemployment paycheck. >> And you receive a check for supposedly what you applied for 3 years prior. And I'm going to tell you right now, unemployment doesn't give lump checks. >> Problem is is that Treasury check. First off, it's fake as heck. There's There's nothing about that check that's even remotely real. >> But you can't show us one piece of documentation. >> That's what I'm stating to you. I didn't do everything by myself. >> On September the 26th, 2023, officers received a call from a porn shop about a fraud in progress. The report stated that the suspect had visited the shop with the intention of cashing a $24,000 fraudulent check. In response, the cops were dispatched to the location to investigate the alleged fraud. >> What's going on? trying to cash a $24,000 counterfeit check. >> Hello. >> In reference to the call on John Hank. >> What's this all about? >> Um, I had received a check in the mail and it was supposed to be a payback out from my back pay >> for what? >> Unemployment. >> You were expecting a check for almost $24,000. >> I wasn't. Not really. >> Were you expecting a check at all? I knew I was supposed to be winning a check, but I didn't think it was supposed to be that much. >> Okay. >> What car did you show up in? >> It was a Why did they leave? >> Because we was running late picking up my kids from school. >> All right. So, why didn't you go pick up your kids from school then? >> Because I had told them I was coming back about 5:00. Well, before then. >> Okay. I mean, >> I mean, this they're saying this is a fraudulent check. I don't know. I don't know any difference. >> I want to call up like, "Hey, go get a light unit." 345 232. >> This is the fact you tried to use. That's a copy of everything. >> Hey, we're going to get into the the meat and potatoes in this. I know you're kind of wondering what's going on. Before I do that, cuz I've got questions I want to ask you. I got to read you your rights. Doesn't mean you're in trouble. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say you can will be used against you in the court of law. Do you understand each of the rights I just read to you? [music] Okay. >> Um, having your rights in mind, which is what I just read to you, do you want to talk to us and answer questions? I just want to know like >> I would love to explain it to you but I the only way I can talk to you is if you agree to talk to us after being advised you're right. >> Okay. >> So what what's going on? We're we're here. You're here. The checks here. What? Give me tell me tell me what happened >> basically. Okay. I received a check in the mail that was supposed to be for back pay. >> When did you receive it? >> Last [music] week. >> Where? At your house. >> Yes. >> Okay. So I haven't been staying home honestly and I called my aunt and I was asking her like hey have I got any mail this and she was like yeah you know you got a couple of >> your aunt stays with you? >> Yes I stay where I stay with you stay at your okay >> so she was like that I had a few pieces of mail in this that and the third. So I had went to go pick it up. >> Okay. >> So after that that's when um I noticed that the check had came. >> Okay. >> So I was like oh well you know boom. So last week when I picked it up, I never end up cashing it because due to my rate schedule, I always got off work late. >> Okay. >> And so then after that, that's when I had um came in today because I was off >> and to cash a check. And when I tried to use my photo ID on my phone, they was like, "No, I needed a physical ID." So I had went and got a physical ID >> and this happened. >> So that check was for what? >> For unemployment. [music] >> Okay. Have you ever gotten unemployment before? No, I applied once, but like I never received anything. Never heard anything go back. So, it was just like >> So, this is the first time you've ever done unemployment, filed for it or anything like that? You've never received checks before for unemployment or anything? This is the first one? >> Yes. >> Where's the envelope that that came in? >> Do you have it? >> It was supposed to been up front if they didn't move it. >> Okay. Um, do you remember who it came from? What was on the envelope? It was like it was a blank envelope with the clear slip and it was a paper in front of it and then like when you unfold it it was like the check the rest of the well you know how like you rip off a check that's how it was. >> The suspect claims the check was for unemployment benefits which she had filed 3 years prior. However, something about her story didn't add up and because the cops were all too familiar with the process of unemployment, they weren't buying her story. >> When you filed for unemployment, how'd you do it? >> What what site did you go to? Um, >> what did you receive? Did you get like an email after you applied? Did you receive anything? >> I had basically received a letter saying that I had to submit some more um information in, but that was only thing. Once I had not submitted everything, that was it. Did you submit the paperwork? >> Yes. >> Okay. How was that? >> I did it online. Like at the time I was doing everything online, but how I had like knew to do like the unemployment stuff, my friend was telling me about it. >> Mhm. >> So she >> did you ever receive an approval or a denial from them for unemployment? >> I basically I really didn't pretty much hear nothing else. And then it was like I had um started doing hair. So, it was like I wasn't really too focused on it. >> There's not really anything about this that's not fishy. You know what I mean? None of this makes sense. All right. Um, we're asking you questions cuz we're trying to gauge where you're at as far as what you're going to tell us and how truthful you're going to be. But I'm going to tell you right now, not a darn thing that's come out of your mouth has made any sense. Okay. 2019, you applied for unemployment. Is that what you said? >> No, it wasn't. I wouldn't even say it was 2019. I want to say it was 2020. >> Okay. So, let's say it's 2020. >> Mhm. >> Okay. It's 3 years later. Okay. It's 2023, almost 2024. >> Yeah. >> And you receive a check for supposedly what you applied for 3 years prior. And I'm going to tell you right now, unemployment doesn't give lump checks. >> Okay. Um unemployment is a payment >> as if you were working. Okay. >> And those checks don't come from the Treasury. >> Mhm. >> Okay. No, but I'm letting you know that I know that. >> Okay. Well, that's what I'm saying. Like I don't know. Like I never received unemployment. I never got a check from Treasury or anything. So, this is like my first time actually receiving something like this. >> While she continued to lie through her teeth, she was unaware that her entire scheme had been captured by security cameras out front and the officers were slowly beginning to catch on to the truth. >> Just so you know, for 4 years, I did fraudulent investigations for the department. And I saw stuff like this all the time. >> And I and I'll tell you right now, the reason we're asking you this, he saying we're gauging uh how truthful you're going to be. I'll tell you right now, this is your chance to be honest because I know exactly what's going on. Um I can call it exactly like I seen it every other time before. Somehow someone came in contact with you, a male, probably the male that's sitting in your car out there in the passenger seat, the black Chevy Malibu. and that person [music] convinced you that you need to go in here and you need to cash this check and then payment would be to receive a portion of that check while they get the other. You being a single mom, I don't know if you're getting paid a lot right now. I'm not going to worry about that. >> But you would get a portion of that money and they would get the rest. And all you had to do was go in here, show your ID, and here you go. and this is what you got to say and these people will buy it. And I say that because I recently arrested someone not too long ago for the same similar type of thing here. So with that being said, we already know the person out in the car because [music] I don't know if you know this or not, but this place has video cameras. So they come >> or I'm sorry. You come here and they see exactly what cars you come in and out of >> and they see what cars come at the same time that you come. >> Right. >> Well, that car was here earlier with you, >> right? [music] So, it's odd that it's back now. And there's a guy that's just been sitting there waiting >> in the passenger seat. Now, my my question is is did this guy contact you through like Instagram or Facebook or what? And what did he promise you? Because and maybe he told you that yes, this is this [music] is legit and you know, this is what it is. But I'm telling you right now, I know you're full of it. [music] Um they try to do this whole thing all the time with people like here this is this is what it is. this is what you're going to tell them. That way it sounds legit or tries to sound legit. The problem is is that Treasury check. First off, it's fake as heck. There's there's nothing about that check that's even remotely real. You wouldn't get a check from the Treasury anyway that comes in a blank envelope in the mail 3 years later and then you claim it's unemployment. So, you can sit here and tell us all day long that this is what you believe it is or this is what you think it is or whatever story they concocted for you, but ultimately you need to tell us who the person is out there, how they contact you, and everything else. Maybe we can help you out. I'm not promising we can, but >> this is your chance to be honest because I'm telling you right now, I already know you're lying. >> I'm going to be completely honest with you. The person that's in the car, that's my little brother. He's a minor. Right. >> 17. He has nothing to do with this. >> That's number one. I'm I promise you I'm completely honest with you. >> Okay. >> Number two, the check that came in the mail. Basically, my friend helped me apply for unemployment. She told me basically like you go on his website, you do such and [music] such and such and that was it. >> So So you're going to stick with that that came in the mail? >> That's what you're sticking with? Cuz I'm going to tell you right now, we're getting to a point where there's there's going to be a line. And once we meet that line of our patience with this, there's going to be no going back and helping you. >> I can give you my friend information. They help me do anything. But the cops now seeing her for the fraudster that she really was, she became desperate to get off the hook. To this end, she came up with another bull story. And this time, she let an innocent friend take all the blame. >> But you can't you can't show us anything about anything that you applied for, any website, any email, >> nothing that said you were ever going to get money back, which doesn't make sense. You get it back from the treasury anyway. A big lump sum of $24,000 3 years later after you file for unemployment. that makes >> there's going to be they're not just going to send you a check without some sort of notification, >> especially for that amount. [music] >> And with unemployment, you get approved or you get denied. I've done unemployment before back in the day. You get approved, you get denied. But it's all notifications to your email in the mail. You have documentation for everything because that's that's a government entity and they have to keep records of everything and you get notifications of every decision that they make. But you can't show us one piece of documentation. >> That's what I'm stating to you. I didn't do everything by myself. My friend helped me. I can give you my friend information. I give you a name. Who helped me with it? Everything. I just I don't I don't want to be in trouble. >> I can give you all the person contact information. >> Your friend? >> Yes. >> What are they going to They're going to tell me, "Oh, yeah. I helped her file for unemployment." >> I tell you what. I tell you what. Give me your friend's information. While we're here with you, we're going to call her. We're going to see what she says. >> Like I said, I've done this for a long time. I did this for four years. >> All kinds of stuff. >> The only thing that ever changed was the names of the people that did it. That's it. It's the only thing that ever changed. I promise you this is my first >> because I can look that that check right there and I can tell that that is beyond fake. It's laughable. >> Hey, listen. Um, got a question for you. We're down here with a a young lady who gave me your number and your name. >> Did you ever assist her uh years ago or anything with uh trying to help her file for unemployment? Did she did she mention anything to you about did have you re have you received any checks or anything like from the US Treasury? You don't remember where you went through to apply for those? >> Do me a favor. I got to check with my recruitment. >> Hang that one. >> Okay. Well, we're here with her. Um she's here with a uh a fake check from the Treasury. So, we're we're trying to figure out she's trying to basically throw you under the bus saying that you're the one that um was the one that showed her how to do all this and and and get this and everything. So, um she gave us your number and your name cuz she's trying to get herself out of trouble. >> Do you know what you're >> So, I don't know. >> I I don't know. I been out there talking to the employees. I don't know what you could talk an officer Dutchman about with officer. What I can tell you is between the two of them, they have close to like 25 years of experience like doing this type of stuff. Okay? So like this isn't new. I have a history with financial stuff and in my experience professionally, I can tell you right away that that's there's a lot of red flags here. As expected, the woman's story was confirmed to be a total lie after officers contacted her friend who she claimed was the mastermind of the whole scheme. >> And you said that that that came in an envelope. >> Yes. >> Okay. And then Yeah, cuz I asked these guys and they don't have the envelope. So, >> um, did it possibly? >> J probably did cuz the envelope was on the counter. >> Okay. All right. I'll have to ask him about it. So, you spent a while talking to officer Dutchman here. You spent a while talking to Officer Con. Who? Who d or who brought you here? How did you get here? >> I drove myself here. >> You drove yourself in what car? >> Uh, Malibu. >> Who else was in the car with you? >> My little brother. >> He's gone. >> No, >> he left. Is there a reason that he left? >> He had to go pick up my kids. >> Your kids? Okay. Um, based off of what we have here. Okay. You're under arrest. >> Can I call someone? >> Um, who do you want to call? Go ahead and get your haircut first. We'll call you. Okay. All right. >> All right. Where you get in my car? You have anything that's going to poke me and stick me? >> Nothing illegal. >> Oh, here's the envelope. >> Oh, look at that. That says FIS Output Solutions. That's not from the US Treasury. He's telling you that from the back. Okay. All right. Go ahead and take a seat. >> Yeah. You're going to have to kind of reach in. Can you like >> It's like this mud. Like I'mma slide if I >> I'll hold on to you. >> The suspect was later charged with grand theft and uttering forged instruments. If you felt this was a very dumb attempt to defraud, wait till you see the next case about a $50,000 fraud scheme orchestrated by a 23-year-old named Colby. >> If I wanted to do anything fraud, why why would I walk in here myself? My cousin had deposited a check into my account. That's what I'm saying. It was not me. >> You were already under arrest for attempt of A POLICE OFFICER. >> I DIDN'T [screaming] DO ANYTHING. >> PLEASE DON'T MAKE THIS ANY WORSE FOR YOURSELF. On January the 18th, 2024, the cops drove down to Southwest Louisiana Credit Union in Lake Charles to follow up on a bank fraud investigation involving one of its customers, 23-year-old Colby Ant, who was said to have had a fake check of over $50,000 deposited into her account days prior. Confrontation of Colby by the detectives will however end up spiraling into complete mayhem. >> Miss, can you come talk to me, please? >> Yeah. Okay, >> we'll step right in there if you don't mind. >> You can have a seat right there if you want. >> So, I'm Detective Weekly with the Couch Bear Sheriff's Office. I'm a I'm a financial crimes detective. >> Uh I have a case where your name has come up. It's a case number 24-3117. [music] It's a bank fraud case. Yeah, that's what I'm coming up here for. >> You're coming up here for some bank fraud stuff? >> Yeah. >> Okay. All right. So, before I ask you any questions, I have uh I have a form that I'd like you to sign. Uh Miranda Wright's form. So, I just need to fill out some information on it and then we'll get right into it. So, we're at uh 2255 East Mcne Street, Southwest Louisiana Credit Union. Uh also present is Miss Linda Christina. Christina, >> y'all are and y'all are bank employees. >> I'm the chief lending officer. >> Chief lending officer. >> Risk officer. >> Chief risk officer. >> That's what I'm here to clear up. I didn't come and deposit anything. I just now I'm just now finding out about what's happening and what's going on with my account. >> Is that somebody with you right there? >> Oh, yeah. That's my mother. >> Oh, okay. >> Yeah, that's my mother. she had brought me here cuz I'm trying to figure out what's going on with my account as well. But yeah, that I [music] just left the the one you went to get a debit card is what? >> Yeah, I went to go get my debit card, but >> yeah, [music] I had just I was in my account and I'm looking or whatever. And >> ma'am, you can step outside. Please step outside. >> Mama, just step out. I don't I'm trying to figure out the same thing. >> If you interfere in my investigation, I will place you under arrest. Please step outside. She's She's an adult. She's an adult. >> Okay. But you don't have to disrespect my mom anymore. >> Step outside, >> ma'am. >> And you don't have to And I'm going to tell you, you don't have to disrespect my mom neither. >> I'm not going to ask you again. >> At the same time, like that's that's what I'm here for. >> Just Mom, close the door. Please close the door. >> 450, [music] can you send me a patrol unit? You don't have to be disrespectful towards anybody's parents. That's [music] my mother. She's >> figure out what's going on. >> It's none of her business. >> It is her business. >> It's not. >> It is. >> You are an adult. >> It doesn't matter. And that's still my mother. >> Can you please lower your voice? >> I don't have to lower anything. >> Okay. >> Colbyanta pretended she had no knowledge of what was being discussed and denied having a hand in the attempted fraud. Unfortunately for her, there was substantial CCTV footage waiting to blow up in her face and prove that all she was telling the detectives was a blatant lie. >> Anyways, ma'am, like I was saying, so that I was looking in my account cuz I had did a a flash loan or something like that. >> Yeah. And they called me earlier and so I was like, well, I don't my debit card got lost. So I was like, I need another debit card. So I told them that I would be coming up there to get another one. So that's what I went to do. [music] And then that's when she told me that I needed to speak with someone from the wrist department. So then I came here. >> Okay. >> So that's what I'm saying. If if if >> if I had if I wanted to do anything for why why would I walk in here myself? That that's pointless. >> But that's what I was here to clear. I'm trying to figure out which risk or whatever is going on and what happened. Something about a a $50,000 check was deposited into my account that I did not deposit. I didn't sign off on anything, no nothing. That's what I'm here for. Do >> you remember me calling you and talking? >> I remember a lady calling me, but that's what I'm saying. And I have a settlement or whatever that's going on right now. That's what I thought it [music] was until I check. I'm like, this is not >> what this is not what I'm waiting for. Yes. This is not what I'm waiting for. >> You said you had >> is my cousin had deposited a check into my account. It That's what I'm saying. It was not me. >> All right. Miss, I have this form. Can you make sure? >> I'm not signing nothing until I see everything that you have. >> Go ahead and stand up. Go ahead and stand up for me, please. >> Stand up for what? I just want to see what's going on first. I don't want to be arrested for something that I don't even know anything about. THAT'S WHY I'M HERE. >> LOOK, I tried to get you. I tried to get a statement from you. >> I'm giving you a statement, but I want to know. >> No, you just told me you're not signing anything, so I can't ask you any questions. No, ma'am. You can go ahead and stand up. >> I don't want to be arrested for something that I did. >> It's too late. The decision's already been made. Go ahead and stand up. >> What am I being arrested for? >> Please stand up. >> Miss, please stand up. >> Can y'all please like tell me >> I'm not going to ask you again. Please stand up, miss. >> Sir, >> I was silent. >> It's too late now. >> How is it too late? You didn't give me a CHANCE TO TALK. >> DO NOT RESIST. Do not pull away. >> Sir, stop touching me. >> STOP PULLING AWAY. >> YOU DIDN'T GIVE ME A CHANCE TO TALK. NO. >> STOP. >> STOP TOUCHING ME. >> MISS, >> STOP TOUCHING ME. YOU BETTER >> STOP. SIR, I'M TELLING YOU, STOP TOUCHING [screaming] ME. DO NOT TOUCH ME. DON'T TOUCH ME. DON'T TOUCH ME. >> 450 33. >> WHERE'S MY MOM? DON'T TOUCH ME. >> DON'T TOUCH ME. >> GIVE ME YOUR HAND, MISS. >> NO. >> COANTE. GIVE ME YOUR HAND. SIR, DO NOT TOUCH. YOU'RE UNDER ARREST. ARREST FOR WHAT? I DIDN'T DO ANYTHING. >> GIVE ME YOUR HAND. >> I DID NOT DO ANYTHING. MISS >> I DIDN'T, SIR. I DIDN'T ARREST ANYTHING. YES, we're under arrest. >> Please, where's my [screaming] mom? Can you get my mom? >> You are under arrest. >> Can you GET MY MOM? STOP TOUCHING ME. >> YOU ARE UNDER ARREST RIGHT NOW TO STOP TOUCHING ME, SIR. >> MISS, you are under arrest. >> Miss, you are under arrest. >> Stop touching me. >> Miss, >> stop touching me. >> You already UNDER ARREST FOR ATTEMPTED battery of a POLICE OFFICER. >> I [screaming] DIDN'T DO ANYTHING. >> PLEASE DON'T MAKE THIS ANY WORSE FOR YOURSELF. CHRISTA, >> I'M GOING TO JAIL FOR SOMETHING THAT I DID NOT DO. BRO, [screaming] >> STOP TOUCHING YOUR HAND. >> STOP TOUCHING IT. >> NEED TO STAND UP AND put your hands behind YOUR BACK. >> BRO, >> I'm at the bank trying to get ANOTHER CARD >> AND THEY came in here A A SHERIFF OR something came up in HERE TALKING ABOUT I'M UNDER ARREST FOR BANK FRAUD. I didn't even do anything. Like, >> stand up, miss. YOU'RE UNDER ARREST. I'M TELLING YOU, DON'T TOUCH ME, >> MISS. >> NO, I'M NOT. DON'T TOUCH ME. >> YES, YOU ARE. >> NO, I'm not. Don't touch me. >> Miss, you're under arrest. >> Christa, please help. >> You're under arrest. >> Once she saw that things had progressed farther than she had anticipated, she decided to introduce her fist into the mix, causing even more problems for herself. >> You can figure all this stuff out later, but you're already under arrest for battery of a police officer and resisting arrest force or violence. You were under arrest for attempted bank fraud. SO GO AHEAD. PLEASE STAND UP. >> ATTEMPTED BANK FRAUD. I DIDN'T DO ANYTHING. >> I have the problem because MISS YOU DIDN'T SHOW ME ANY EVIDENCE. >> Stand up for me, miss. >> Oh, my mama. Please outside. >> Stand up. >> STOP [screaming] TOUCHING ME. >> STOP. Come on, baby. Just don't do [laughter] that. Don't do that. My mama. >> Okay, I'm going to get your mama. Put your stuff in your hand. >> I'mma get your mama. You just >> You got cuffs. >> I didn't do anything. >> Okay. Well, we going to We going TO FIGURE THIS OUT. >> THAT'S WHAT I WAS TRYING TO DO. >> OKAY. WELL, let's We going to do that. But you going to have TO CALM DOWN. >> I'M CRYING. BUT I'M [screaming] doing >> But it's going to BE HEY. I'M DYING, BUT I didn't do it. >> Okay. Okay. Okay. >> Oh god. There we go. >> I didn't I didn't do anything. >> Is that other side unlocked? >> Did your boat lock? >> Hold on. We got We got >> my mom. >> Look, I'mma get you, Mom. You going to have to calm down. >> I'm calm, but I didn't do anything. That's what I tried to tell him. >> Okay. But but you you're resisting and you're >> I understand, but I didn't come in here. I didn't do >> stand up FOR >> STOP GETTING HIM OFF OF ME. SIR, can you PLEASE GET ME OFF? I DON'T WANT HIM TOUCHING ME. STOP [screaming] TOUCHING ME. >> I GOT I GOT >> STOP TOUCHING ME. >> COME ON. Come on. >> Come on. >> Come on. L. Uh, Linda, >> let me get her. >> Hey, you want to go this way? >> Hold on. >> 450. She's detained. Even 64. >> What's going on, man? >> I know, but listen. Sarah, can you um can you please >> She's under arrest for attempted bank fraud, battery of a PO resistant force surveillance. >> Okay. >> You can call the jail to find out what her bond is. >> Following Colobby's arrest, detectives carried out a review of the CCTV [music] footage and managed to track an unidentified male who was suspected to be Colobby's partner in crime. >> Sir, can you look at me, please? >> What's your Can can I get your name? >> I'm sorry. What? felt it. >> Do you want to give me a statement? A >> statement? >> Yeah. I don't know what's going on. She asked for a ride to the bank. I came out of here and all y'all here. >> Well, uh, a check was deposited into uh into her account. >> Yeah. >> And uh is a fake check. [music] So, would you like to give me a statement? >> What do I know? I just told you I >> Well, I I just I just told you what I'm currently investigating. All right. So, what you mean? You're not telling me nothing. You saying you investigate. So, I'm telling you I don't have nothing to do with this. I don't know what's going on. >> Hey, what's up? >> Does Does my name on there? Does my name is my name on there? Anything? >> I don't have nothing to do with that. >> What? >> What? What about that? Let me see that. >> Is that you? >> No, that ain't me. >> It looks like you. >> No, they ain't. Well, do what you want to do. Come on. Come on. Come on. Come on. Come on. Let's ride. Let's ride. >> I don't have time for this. You keep on asking me something. I'm telling you. Ask for a ride to the bank. I can't give her a ride to the bank. I mean to say you want me to get upset with you yelling cuz he pissing me off. You keep on asking me the same thing over and over and over if you want if you want to talk to him about a case that he's working. >> I don't know nothing about a case. >> Kobe was charged with attempted bank fraud and resisting with violence. The next fake check scam caught on body cam was that of Somaya and a click of scammers who tried to trick multiple banks. >> So you just came to cash a check from your employer? >> Yeah. >> Who's your employer? Um, that's it's for it's a rent check. >> A rent check? >> Yes. >> Obviously, I'm not stupid. You know what I mean? >> Yeah. I know you're not stupid. You're not stupid either. >> Yeah. Make money. >> Cuz what they're telling me is that you've been to a couple other Mnt banks already trying to cash tax. >> On December the 29th, 2023, the cops responded to a bank after a teller alerted them about a customer trying to deposit a fake check. On arrival, the police met with the customer in question, 26-year-old Somaya, who was completely caught off guard and had no idea that her entire fraud scheme had been exposed. >> Hello. >> Um, so I have just information here that's not matching on our system. Um, I understand you've been to other branches, too. So, we just wanted to give you >> What's going on? >> Hi. Um, I got that check from my employer. >> Mhm. You have an ID on you? >> Yes, that's the ID. >> This is your ID? >> Yes. Okay. What's your name? >> Somaya. >> Your birthday. >> Okay. >> Do you have a driver's license? >> Yes. >> Is it in Connecticut or >> Huh? >> Is it a Connecticut? I know. Is it a Connecticut license or is it >> No, I'm visiting family. >> Where you from? What state? >> So, it's a New York license. Okay. >> Why don't you say hang tight for the >> Well, which car? So we can go take a look. >> Um, this is >> Okay. What color? >> White. >> White. Okay. >> So, you just came to cash a check from your employer? >> Yeah. >> Who's your employer? >> Um, that's it's for it's a rent check. >> A rent check? >> Yes, it's for my rent. >> Yeah. Who's your employer though? >> It's a rent check. >> No, I get that. But you said it's from your employer, right? >> Yeah. >> So, who's your employer? >> I don't understand the problem. Well, it sounds like they think you might be trying to pass a bad check. >> No, I'm not. >> Okay. So, I'm asking who's your employer? Like, who gave you the check? >> It's for your rent. >> Yes. >> Okay. Do you understand my question? >> Yeah. I I feel like um I don't know what's going on. >> So, I just told you they they called us cuz they think you're trying to pass a bad check. >> Okay. >> So, that's what's going on. So, I'm just trying to figure out if you know you're saying it's just for rent and everything like that. I'm just asking who's your employer. >> It's for rent. >> Go ahead. I know. Do you you didn't hear my You're not getting my question. Like someone someone issued it to you, right? Your employer. So who's your employer? Like what do you do for work? >> I'm a receptionist. >> Receptionist. Okay. Where do you work? >> In New York. >> Okay. >> There's no Civics out here in the parking lot. Do you want to want her to try again? >> You drive a different car? >> No. >> Okay. So, my partner just told me there's not a Civic in the parking lot. You got I don't I don't understand. You guys are making me like nervous. >> Okay. Well, it's a simple question. What What kind of car did you drive? >> A white city car. >> Okay. So, where where'd you park it? Behind the back? >> Yes. >> When Somaya began to hesitate in her responses and refused to provide answers to back up her claim that the check was given to her by her employer, it became evident to the officer that this was indeed a failed attempt to defraud. >> Again, who is your employer that cut you the check? Smi. >> Yeah. >> Who's your employer? So, your friend left you with the timeline. >> You want to just tell me what's going on? Obviously, I'm not stupid. You know what I mean? >> Yeah. I know you're not stupid. How stupid you make me feel. >> Well, the car that you came in with just got stopped by the state police trying to leave. >> You know what I mean? >> Yeah. >> Probably cuz you told them that we were here. So, you want to tell me what's going on >> or I'm just going to go off what they said and that's what you know that's going to be that. I'm just trying to give you >> they're going to do what you want to do because this >> No. >> Yes, you are. >> Okay. So, do you want to tell me about the check or not? >> Yes, I was issued that. >> Okay. By who? >> So, >> yeah. >> By who? >> It shouldn't be too hard of a question, right? >> Yeah. I don't know. >> Hm. Okay, you can hang tight right here. >> So, can you explain what's going on? >> Branches branches tell me that she tried to go to their location to cash the check and we've already check that out of that account. So, we can tell it's a counterfeit check. >> How how do you do that? So, we look at images of recently cashed items and it doesn't match anything. The signature is not a match. So, that tells us it's counter. >> So, the signature is not a match to the other checks that have been cashed by this. >> You want me to pull one up and print it? >> Yes. >> Thank you, Jack. Thank you. >> So, anyway, she came here and you >> I saw her based off the description that you had in the description. We were all kind of >> already previously given information before she even came in about Okay. So she went to stores at the time probably. So as soon as she walked into >> and then she was trying to cash this >> and then you pulled up this account's other previous issue checks and the signature doesn't match. >> Correct. >> Okay. >> Yeah. And it's not the right style too. >> Just tell like so like the security features in a different spot. That's another tell >> too where like I don't know if it was in sequence. We also look at that. I'm not sure if it was. It probably wasn't. >> Okay. She might have gotten away with any other. >> Yeah. Would you be willing to give a written statement about everything you just >> According to a bank official, this wasn't Somaya's first attempt attempting to cash a fake check. But unfortunately for her, this time around, her luck ran out. What they would later discover, however, is that she was only one out of a group of people executing an elaborate [music] fraud scheme. >> So, you want to tell me about or no? Because what they're telling me is that you've been to a couple other Mnt banks already trying to cash checks and they turned you away and they notified other banks and that this is a different signature than the typical ones on the account and that the security features are different as well and that it's out of order. So, it's a bad check. Okay. Who are your three friends? Smile. All right. We're done with the phone right now. >> I Why are you done with the phone? You can either put it down or I can take it as evidence. What do you want to do? >> I'm going to either seize your phone or you're going to put it down. >> I can take it right from you. You know that >> because you we're not going to be texting someone else about what's going on. Okay. >> If you pull out the phone again, listen, listen. Stop. You are. Listen. Stop talking while I'm talking. If you pull the phone out again, I'm going to take it as evidence. Okay? >> I promise you that. I'll go in your pockets and grab it from you. >> And then so see the security seal is on a different side. >> I mean the signature might have been traced. >> It's off. And I mean it's close. >> Mhm. >> The security is a big one though. >> Okay. >> Make sure she doesn't pull her phone out again. If she does, just take it. Okay. >> Okay. >> Yes. And it's broken. >> Do you have anything in your pockets? >> What was that? AirPods. >> Can you just empty your pockets for me? and my phone. >> Can you put that phone right here? >> You just stand up for me. I'm just going to use my flashlight and check. Okay. And do you have anything on underneath this jacket? Can you just turn the police that way? Okay. I'm just going to keep this for the time being. We'll get this back to you. Okay. I'm going to see what the investigating officer is going to do. All right. Just have a seat for me. >> If I put it away, just >> Okay. I'm not going to go through it or anything. I'm just going to see what the investigating officer wants to do with it. Okay. If he's going to give it back to you, I don't know what the entirety of the investigation is going to come out to. >> All right. I'm not going to go through it. I'm going to stand right with you and I'm going to put it right in my pocket. Good. >> Using the description of the car Samaya provided earlier on, officers were able to track down the others identified as Ray Sha, Maurice, and Lziah. >> Why'd you leave her in the bank? >> No, I I was going to use the bathroom. I had like I still have to use the bathroom like right now, but I was and I had to get gas like if you if you see my gas is on like 40 I got like 40 30 miles. So I was actually ready to drive home but she was taking pretty long but I didn't know why you know I didn't I didn't speak to her you know. >> I didn't know why she was taking long but I didn't like I didn't think it was a you know a police station is >> you know so you just left her there cuz you were going to go get gas. >> Yeah but I was coming right back you know. She has a phone you know like so it's not like I was going to leave her in Connecticut you know. >> I am standing here with you right now. I'm not going to go through your cell phone. I'm just keeping it in my possession for the time being. >> He told you to [music] do it. >> He told me that if you take it out just to take it, >> but I didn't take it out. >> Oh, well, I was searching for I was searching you to make sure you didn't have any other checks or anything on you again. I am not >> You just check me this time. >> I'm not I'm not Again, I'm not going through your phone. It will This will be his >> I left it. I left it. I put it away in my pocket. I didn't bring it out. >> I It was on It was on the table right there. >> Remember you trick me? >> I didn't trick you. I was just searching you to make sure you didn't have any other fraud checks or anything on [music] you. >> You tricked me. >> Okay. >> You told me if I put it away, I didn't touch it. >> Okay. I'm again, I'm not here to trick you. I'm trying to I'm trying to give you being I'm being straight with you. I'm trying to I'm being honest with you. >> You told me to take it out and I took it out. >> Well, I told you to just put everything on the table right there. >> Yeah. And it was supposed to be a female, so you're a male. >> I didn't I used my flashlight just to make sure you didn't have anything in your pocket pockets. Okay, that's fine. And I'm allowed to. I didn't I used my flashlight, though. >> All right. I'm not trying to give you a hard time. I'm just giving you a bunch. >> No, you just tricked me. You guys was tricking me. >> So, you don't you don't know that you were at like three different banks today. You don't know why you guys were leaving with your friend still in the bank? >> Okay. >> Like I said before, I only know Ricky. Ricky asked me to come along on a trip. >> Ricky's this guy, >> right? >> Okay. >> Um I just found out his real name today. >> Okay. Yeah. >> To a bunch of blank paper. >> Yeah. printed checks, all the same, unfilled out >> with the same signature. Sorry. >> And then they got a bunch of rip checks. >> Sorry. You also have like the Clorox and stuff, too. The wash checks back here. >> You just stand up for me. >> Turn around. You're being detained right now. Okay. You can go around all these people. >> We will be back in momentarily for like statements and stuff. You need, >> can you please? >> You want the window cracked again? Okay. >> Although the other three tried to pretend like they had no idea about the intended fraud, a quick search of their vehicle led officers to uncover evidence, including a bunch of forged checks, which exposed them for who they really were. >> Hello. >> Hi again. So, I actually got a little bit more information also the employee requested about the actual customer. So, I talked to the branch that's in Coventry and the person that was in here >> did successfully cash a check at their [music] branch. Um, so I just made a copy of that for you to see. And I wrote down their phone number that was made out to the same name. >> And this is a copy of the check that they cleared at Coventry. >> And then this is the information for the account, >> the customer. Yes. >> You guys want to press charges, I imagine, right? >> Yeah, I would I would say so, especially because she got away with that. So, >> we uh we have this female as well. Oh, okay. Oh, great. >> I know. I saw the big >> Yeah. >> presents outside. >> And are you able to see how many times they were able to successfully cash checks? >> This is the only transaction. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Uh if needed, would you be willing to testify? >> Sure. >> Okay. >> Thank you for getting here so quickly. >> Of course. Thanks for calling. Like we've never been successful. Yeah, it's tough, but >> we just do so much of it and it's really frustrating because it's negative impact from your customers. So, thank you. >> Thank you. >> And you will have a less event for us tonight cuz you're all done, right? >> Almost. Yeah. I hope I hope your night's not easy. I don't know how much longer you have. >> A while. >> It's all right. >> Thank you so much. >> Of course. >> I'm not a snitch. I'm not none of that. You know, I'm a man >> for the other people you're with. >> Yeah. I'm not making the case work. I'm not going to say anything to put anybody else in more hot water. Sure. I'm a real man. So, I'm going to stand on what I say. I need a lawyer. He's saying that he's going to get a record deal for uh he was working for like Warner. He's going to get work for Universal records and music and stuff. What the hell are you doing? Seriously, >> they're here. They don't have >> Don't leave me that sweater. I'll never be your friend ever. Huh? >> Bro, my 25-0. >> Yes. >> All four suspects were charged with conspiracy to commit lasseny and forgery. By this click's poor attempt to scam was ludicrous. The next case involving 18-year-old Elliot Garcia showcased a different dimension of dumbness. >> She [snorts] never wrote this check out cuz she still has the check. >> Where? >> At her house. >> How would that be? If the check is right there in front of you, >> I'm asking you that question. So, who gave you that check of cash? >> I don't know. Some random person. >> A random person you never met in your life tells you, "Hey, I'm going to give you $1,000." And the first thing is like, "Okay." On March the 25th, 2025, officers were called to TD Bank in Boca Raton after a bank teller caught 18-year-old Elliot Garcia attempting to cash a fraudulent check of $5,000. On arrival, officers immediately detained an unsuspecting Elliot who pretended to be in the dark about what was happening. >> U you're being detained right now. I'll tell you in a second. Um, it's Alana. >> I I have Boa Police Department. >> You guys got a room. >> Um, we're going to Hono Sav. This room. Take this room. Let's go. >> No, I'll tell you in a minute. You know the reason, but we'll play your game. Freedom real quick. >> Yep. Have a seat. >> All right. You're being lawfully detained right now when we investigate a fraud investigation. >> Fraud? >> Yep. Why? >> Everything will be explained to you. >> I mean, >> right now, you're not free to go and you're being lawfully detained. >> I'm going to read you your rights. All right. I am required to warn you before you make any statement. You have the following constitutional rights. >> You have the right to remain silent and not answer any questions. Any statement can be and will be used against you in a court of law. You understand these rights? I have read them to you, sir. >> You wish to answer my questions? After securing [clears throat] the suspect, officers spoke with the assistant manager of the bank, who shed more light on Elliot's criminal intentions. >> Can I see that? >> Yes. This is the check that he had. >> She lives in New Jersey. She's in New Jersey now. >> Okay. She says she never wrote this check out. >> She never wrote that check. He said it's for um to She has repairs. >> I do have the check. Yes. >> Can you tell me what happened? Um subject came in approached the teller. Um I am the assistant manager here. The teller wanted further verification. After looking at the subject's identification um and the check, I realized that um it may be a stolen check. Um so I proceeded to contact the customer. >> Is there a reason why you thought it was a stolen? You said I'm sorry. >> Yes. because of um the the location we uh >> cuz this was a New Jersey >> a New Jersey New Jersey check. Yes. >> So those are little flags you saw. >> Correct. >> Okay. >> Um I investigated further realized that the subject just recently opened up an account two accounts that has not been funded on March 10th. Um his stories that he provided to me did not add up. First he said that he was going to he purchases homes, fix them up and resell them. >> So okay. >> Yes. And then he stated that he was doing some work for them that they have a property in Boca Raton even though they live in New Jersey and he was doing some work for them. He also stated that it was from a company and then he switched and he said that it was from so I didn't feel comfortable so I delayed him called the customer and then called uh the police department. >> The statement provided by the manager told officers all they needed to know about the team. However, when they asked him about the crime, he came up with several ridiculous explanations to try and conceal the truth. >> So I I spoke with this gentleman. He lives in Orlando. Apparently, he came down from Orlando to West Palm Beach to stay at a hotel because him and his cousin like to flip run down apartments, houses. Correct. Okay. If I'm wrong at any point, correct me. Okay. Please. Okay. So, he's staying in West Palm. He didn't want to cash the check in West Palm cuz he didn't want to get robbed. But for whatever reason, he couldn't stop in Lantana, Buenam Beach, Del Re, any other city that was in between West Palm and the city of Boca Raton. He he for whatever reason is just random. Now, if I again, if I understand correctly, apparently in in our city, in the city of Boca Raton, there's a lot of rundown apartments that need fixing that he can flip. and uh he needed to cash the check for $4,950 in our city um so that he can go look at a property somewhere in the city of Bocarone. He doesn't know where. His cousin knows where, but his cousin didn't come with him cuz he had all the important meetings, right? >> No, I didn't say meeting. >> Oh, well, he has all the important stuff to do, right? >> Okay. So, he had all the important stuff to do. So, he just Uber from West Palm to the city of Bocar Raton to cash a check. Uh, did I get the story right, sir? >> Okay. Just want to make sure I was right. >> So, I spoke to the teller and I spoke to Who's that to you? >> That's just the way I did for the house. >> Where? >> Uh, I don't remember. But I still have some company over there. But >> she owns no houses in the state of Florida. She only lives in Jersey. Never been down a book or tone. >> Yeah. She only she lives in Jersey. >> Okay. She never wrote this check out cuz she still has the check. Where is >> at her house? How is that fee if the check is right there in front of me? >> I'm asking you that question. >> That's how I'm trying to >> This check was written out to you. >> Exactly. That's how I'm trying to figure out right now. >> You have her information there. You can call her. If you're a client, if she's your client, you can call her. I don't know. >> I mean, you work in her house, right? >> I send the company's in her house. I I'm just literally like >> But you said you picked up the check. You went to get the check in Jersey. >> Yeah, I picked up that check >> in Jersey. >> I didn't pick it up though. I got a mail. >> Oh, you know what? Let's call her on the phone. We'll put her on the speaker for you. You have to work phone. >> That's crazy. >> So, when I in front of me, though, like what? >> We're going to send her a picture of this. So, she's going to confirm this is her signature, right? >> I mean, my man, you did the work. You got the check. You don't know anything about a check that was given to you. >> No. >> No. Okay. >> I mean, you saying that the check is still in Jersey. It's right there in front of you. So you went all the way to Jersey to do a construction job. >> So what city did you go to do this job? >> The company went over there to do the job for >> Okay. So what's your company? >> No, it's not my company. >> You said your company. >> I said a company. >> A company. >> You said it was your company. >> I didn't say it. >> Okay. So a company is going. So why this a company whatever the name of the a company is >> giving you a check. >> Okay. to do the job. >> But what job are you doing? You hear in Florida, my man. >> Elliot, I'm going to ask you a question. Okay. >> You have a right to say no. Do you mind if you look through your phone? >> No. >> Okay. So, we're going to take the evidence and seize it. >> Wait, does evidence show you your phone? >> Wait. But if I say yes, >> you said no. I'm not going to go back and forth. >> I'm just trying to prove what you say conversations with this this victim here, right, in your company. Cuz usually you're going to text message some kind of proof of your company, right? And it showed you were the checkout, some kind of service, some kind of something like that. >> We all been doing this job for a while. >> So is there someone who told you to go catch this check in >> and you're just kind of the dumb person. Don't know don't know anything. When Elliot noticed the cops weren't falling for his fabricated story and there was security footage to prove that he was lying, he decided to come clean. At least to some extent. >> This is your chance to come clean, bro. I already cut you in enough more than enough lies. So, this is your chance to come clean and try to help yourself. If you want to stick to your story, you're more than welcome. But even the way I explained the story and you confirmed that that was your story, >> you don't it doesn't makes no sense, my man. Listen, maybe if it was our first day doing this line of work, it might work. >> South of Florida. This is king of frauds down here. This is not the first time we deal with it. First lie, we already know this. But I ain't going to lie. That right there. >> So, who gave you that check to cash? >> I don't know. Somewhere on the beach. >> Is it on the beach? Where? Here or where where you live? >> N like >> Did they drop you off here? The car still here? >> No. I'm pretty sure once they seen you out the chrom, >> right? >> Yeah. >> So, you met this random guy on the beach. He told you what to go in there cash. >> Yeah. >> Because on the March 10th, you open up an account TD Bank. >> Yeah. >> Is that what he told you to do or? >> No. No. I was going to open my clothing. But he was like >> blah blah blah TV blah blah blah. >> So, a random guy, you know, you you know what city he was in? >> What beach? >> Tampa. >> Tampa. >> So, he was in Tampa. He met this random guy in the beach. He told you whatever whatever is the war going blah blah blah. >> Okay. >> What? >> Did Okay. You ever been arrested before for anything? >> I'm down here. What's uh Palm Beach County? >> Uh the people from Tampa here and then I guess once they see >> Is it something like a friend of a trans or some random guy at the beach? >> Some random person at the beach. Yeah. He was like, "Yo, I got these uh these checks." Okay. >> Yeah. I'm like, "They're legit." He's like, "Yeah, yeah, yeah, they're legit." I'm like, "Okay, I'm not going to get into no trouble, right?" He was like, "Nah, no, you good." I was like, "Okay, good." >> Was a black guy, a white guy, Spanish guy? >> No. Um, >> white guy, girl. >> Sorry. >> Who was the guy who who told you? >> It was like It's like Haitian like >> So, it's a black guy. >> I'm not trying to lie. >> Skin color is white, black, yellow, dark skin. >> Dark skin. He got dressed. >> Okay. Uh the test was all over. >> How many checks did you give me? Just one. >> Yeah, literally just one. >> Just one? >> Yeah, literally just one. >> He said you said he gave you checks. >> No, no, he gave me that check right there. >> He just gave you >> and he drove you all the way down here for one check. >> Is that the guy you're on the phone with when you were trying to cash the check? >> That's what he usually do. They say stay on the phone while we try to do this. How much money were you supposed to get paid from that >> from the 4950 that you were going to take? How much was your cut? >> Um probably like probably like 15 >> 1500 and he dropped you off and he says and he just start. What what car did he drop you off in? >> Uh it's one of the electric >> like a Tesla. >> No, something like that. >> The Kona whatever it is. I don't know. It's like can something. >> Is it the Hyundai? >> No, it it's newer EV. What color? >> So, we're going to check the camera. So, I mean, it's better to be honest. See you camping in the car. Were you dropped off or were you dropped off in the front? Were you dropped off in the back? >> Were you dropped off on the side, the front, or the back? Cuz we're going to check the cameras. There's a bank. There's cameras everywhere. >> You walked where? You said you were dropped off. >> I dropped off down the street and I walked in. >> Officers could tell that he was trying to play it safe by providing vague answers, and they were determined to make him say more. >> I believe you're telling part of the story, right? You came honest with someone telling you to do this. >> Yeah. >> But I ain't It ain't some guy on the beach. It's probably someone you know. It's probably someone who's done this before and said, "Hey, I did it once. It went through >> in Tampa. Who took you from Tampa to here?" And you don't know what kind of car it was. >> You said it was an EV car. Newer, right? What color was it? >> It's like a reddish It's like a dark reddish like a wine color. >> Where did he drop you off? You literally at the light >> at this light where this wide open window where the light is right here. You got cameras that point that way. Why we're going to see you walk >> that point that way >> or where they're going to see you walk. >> Yeah. >> You You understand? You're in serious trouble right now, right? I hope you know that. >> Okay. I'm trying to I'm I'm going to be straight up with you. Okay. >> You're looking at a couple felonies. >> Felonies? >> This is felony, man. >> What? Yeah, you're looking at washing a check. That's a felony. Fraud, that's another felony. The amount is over 750, so another felony. So, right now, you're looking at three felonies alone yourself. >> Yeah. >> So, we're giving you the chance to try to help yourself. >> What What would What would be helping you? >> The truth. The truth will help you because when we present a case later to the state attorney's office, >> they're going to see everything and they're going to be like, "Okay, this guy's coop cooperating or something." I don't think that you're the person involved in this. I think this is a bigger ring that I think that there's way more people involved in this. I don't think you're the only person that they're using to cash these checks. And the reason I know this is because a couple months ago, I made the same arrest for somebody else. Okay. So, it's up to you if you want to be you want to see the state. Okay. Hey, I cooperated. He was being truthful. Let's see what we can do to help them out. And I'm not saying to help you out that they're going to give you a deal or anything. I'm not mentioning anything. I'm not promising you anything. I am not. >> But what I'm trying to explain to you is it's just going to help you later in the long run because everybody's going to have access to all of this. All of this is being video and already recorded. We have all the evidence. We getting the statements, right? So, all of this information is going to come into play later in court. So, we're you we already caught your line, right? But now you're finally starting to tell somewhat of the truth, right? It's not a good look when the state attorney is reviewing this and they're like, "Okay, he's not even remorseful about what he's doing. He doesn't care about what he's doing." Okay, then they're going to give you what they're going to give you. Okay. Again, I'm didn't make you any promise. I'm not telling you that something's going to change. However, being truthful and you telling the truth and maybe even getting the people that got you in this situation involved, cuz as you can see, the people that dropped you off here, >> the moment they saw our cars, I know that they took off at a high rate of speed. They got in that highway and they say, "Lose this guy's contact number and it's over." You think you're ever going to hear from them again? You think you think they're going to post your bell? >> You got to think. You were set to make what? 1,500 $1,000. So, they gave you one check for $1,000 is what you were going to get. Think about how many checks they're giving out to people, how much money they're making. They're making hundreds of thousands of dollars and you're about to make $1,000. And like he said, three felonies. Three felonies for $1,000. Let that >> cover your bomb. >> Let that sink in. You know, >> it's going to be up there. You're going to depending on the amount of felonies we're going to put. >> I don't want to give you a number. Then I'm wrong. >> You get what I'm saying? >> Elliot claimed to have been recruited by a random stranger he met at the beach. But his refusal to provide any information about this mystery subject had the officers doubting his honesty. >> This is the one and only chance and opportunity we're going to give you to come clean. Once we lock into your statement, guess what? all you whatever you tell us that's what's going to be locked into your statement then it's up to the attorneys later on and the state how they gonna want to handle this okay but it's up to you cuz I don't think you are the person at fault for this somebody use you and now look who's the one in handcuffs and look who's the one that just took off in a car and they're hanging out home >> and All they lost was a piece of paper. >> Yeah. >> Somebody's calling you. Some havy guy facetiming you. >> Okay. So, you you want to take the fall for everything? It's you >> take the [ __ ] for everything. >> Yeah. Like, so this was your idea. This is your whole plot. Okay. So, whose idea was for you to do this? I did. There's no way you just were walking around the beach holding hands or or walking by yourself, holding the air, and you decided to be like, "Oh, hey. How you doing, stranger? Oh, I can make $1,000. Let me jump in your car and let's go to the city of Bocaraton so I can make some money. I highly doubt that's what happened. But if that's the statement you want to stick to, I'll be more than happy when we go in front of the judge to let the judge know that was your statement. >> So, what happened? >> I was at the beach on Tampa. >> When? >> Two weeks ago. >> Two weeks ago. Okay. And then what happened? Uh, I was just walking in. I walked out of a restaurant. Some guy was like, "Hey yo, how old you is?" I was like, "I'm 18 years old." And he was like, "Hey, you trying to make like you trying to make a quick thousand?" I'm like, "Sure." And then once he showed me the check, I'm like, "4,000?" So, I'm only getting $1,000 for $4,000 check. Don't make no sense. I was like, "You know what? He'll probably give me more bread." So I was like, "No, I'll just go through with it, cast a check, give him whatever he gives, and whatever he gives, what he gives me." That was literally the end of it. >> Okay. How did you contact with this person? >> Huh? >> How did you communicate with this person? >> The person. >> Okay. So, you known him for two weeks, correct? Two weeks from today, correct? Give or take. >> Yeah. >> Okay. So, you've been with him every single day, 24/7 with him for the last two weeks? >> No. >> Okay. So, how did you communicate? Did you guys use like brain signals, smoke signals? How did you communicate with him? >> No, he just told me what to do and I just I really had to like memorize. >> Okay. So, he tells you what to do, but somebody dropped you off. So, how did you communicate with these people? >> How did you get from Tampa? Right. If you guys met in Tampa on the beach, I'm assuming like Clear Water St. Pete, right? It's the other side of the state. So, in a twoe time frame, follow me. Two week time frame, you got from there to here with him. How did you orchestrate him picking you up and driving you here? Did you send him mail? Did you call him? Did you FaceTime him? Do you UVU MySpace? Like, what did you guys use to talk to coordinate you getting here today? That's what we're trying to figure out. >> That's But that's not what I'm asking. >> I'm not asking him what he paid for. How did you guys arrange like Instagram DMs? Did you like DM him like, "Hey, dude. I'm ready to go at noon." >> No, it was just >> I'll pick you up. >> Yeah, he'll pick me up and then he'll drop me off and he drop me off. >> So, how did he know when to pick you up and how to where to pick you up? >> Cuz he already dropped me off the first time when we came that. >> So, he just came at a random time and you were like, "Oh, perfect. I've been ready. So you were outside your house for hours just waiting with your stuff to come out. >> I'm not waiting for hours. I was You knocked on the door and was there. So I was like, "All right, let's go." >> So he's familiar with the area over here, >> I guess. So >> So he's from over here? >> I don't know where he's from. I literally met him in Tampa. >> So how did he know where you live? >> He didn't know where I live. I met him in Tampa. >> At this point, Elliot had everyone going around in circles and the cops are beginning to get worn out by his pack of lies. >> Maybe maybe I'm just really confused with the situation, right? So, you live here, but you were in Tampa, right? >> What? >> You live in West Palm. Sorry. >> I don't really >> Where do you live? >> In Orlando. >> You live in Orlando. So, he picks you up in Orlando after meeting two weeks ago in Tampa and then somehow you guys end up driving down here. >> Yeah. >> So, how did he know what time what day to get from Tampa to Orlando to pick you up? He >> didn't know time. He just pulled up. Okay. You just want to lie. You just want to lie, my man. It is what it is, bro. Come on, bro. Like, you mean to tell me in a nature of communication where you have a phone that's been blowing up this whole time during a conversation, you didn't get his phone number. >> So, somebody tells you, a random person you never met in your life, tells you, "Hey, I'm going to give you $1,000." And the first thing is like, "Okay, you're a stranger. You didn't worry that he was going to go to your house to kill you and your family. You no, none of that went through your head." And you don't not even worried that he knows where you live >> now that you're caught. You're not worried that he knows where you live >> now. When you say it like that. Yeah, a little bit. But I mean, I don't think he's going to Well, I don't know. At least >> I guess we'll never know. >> Yeah, we'll never know, >> right? >> Well, you might know, but we won't know. >> Okay. Like I said, we'll seize this. We're going to do a whole analytical. will get a warrant for this. This tells the truth. >> Okay, that's fine. Listen, bro. Just want I want to tell you something, okay? So, you understand how this works. Even when you delete stuff in this, nothing is permanently deleted. And the once we get the warrant and we get the stuff we need, everything you even ever deleted, we're going to be able to see. So, yes. >> Later on, a detective came in to speak with Elliot. hoping to get more information about those behind the scheme. The conversation with Elliot will once again introduce another fresh angle to the story. >> All right, so he he changed the story a little bit. We didn't >> meet him in Tampa Fort Lauderdale like literally a couple days ago. This is I mean like you're still not being super clear about how you got down here because you told me one thing but now you tell me another thing, right? So this is just something you like I told you before, you're articulate. You seem like you know you have it, you know, >> those are clean records. You have a clean record, bro. But like this. >> I mean, listen, it's like I said, it's like a crime of the century, but you had to know. Look, you have to someone hands you a check with these two people's names on it say, "Oh, go in here and do this." Like, come on, bro. >> The thing is I I did it before and like a regular employer check. So I >> when I didn't have a bank, that's how I would get my money. Like I would literally go cash it out. >> You are smart. Some random dude in Fort Lauderdale comes up to you and says, "Oh, you want to do it?" That's wild, bro. That you would tell me that >> that would be a fast investment though. That's how that's how I seen it. >> Well, it happened so fast. >> Ever do it again. Obviously, >> ever in my life for it, right? And >> ruining that record. But like I said, you're 18. Okay. It's a crime 100% and you're going to jail for it, right? But if you really don't have any other prior arrests or anything like that, >> okay, and then you go see a judge and they have plenty of things. They have diversion program. >> What was the difference in your story with her? So, just so that way I'm caught up to speed, right? Cuz here here's where I'm at, right? I'm not trying to ask you. I'm going be shar with you, >> right? Manto man, you told us one story. That's all I know. She can tell me her story and it's coming from her. So, it's a game of telephone, right? I don't like playing telephone. I'd rather hear it from you. So, that way >> that way when I write my report, it's your words and not somebody else's. Right. So, you met this dude in Fort Lauderdale 2 days ago. >> Yeah. >> You go back home. What? What happened? >> No, I didn't I stayed in Fort Lauderdale. >> Okay. So, you stay down there and then >> stay down there. Literally, you said just give me a couple days. I was like, "All right, I'll give you a couple days." The day comes, he said, "All right, this what you going to do? You going to walk into me? I'm going to give you this check and you going to walk out. >> He made it simple like that. He didn't even he details. He didn't give me nothing. Like he didn't give me arrangements or nothing. Literally said I'm going to give you this check once you walk in TD. >> Cash it and you're out. >> Literally literally simple as that. >> So like the this is for from my understanding, not like >> No, you to just clarify. Did did he have you fill it out or did he already have all this information for the lady? It was already filled out. >> He litally he literally gave it to me. He said, "Walk in here." And >> so he already knew your name and stuff to fill it out. And then he knew what I guess dollar amount he wanted it all to be and stuff. >> That's so he I guess all the only thing the only thing he asked me for was a name. Like mine >> your sorry >> my name. >> Your name? >> That's >> I didn't I just didn't hear you. >> No, you >> um Okay. And then what? He picked you up earlier today. Y'all came straight here and that was it. Y'all ain't been hanging out the last two days. >> That's right. >> Okay. Oh, >> he just made it so simple. So I didn't really like >> it back in my head like damn some dumb. >> You walk out with a band too. >> Like and that that band was literally going to go to my clothing like >> go to your what? >> My clothing brand >> clothing. I got >> like I was about to I was about to open that's why I opened TD originally to make a business. >> Yeah. >> To make it as a business account. >> Okay. >> But [snorts] it's too late. Elliot Garcia was charged with grand theft, uttering a counterfeit check and fraudulent use of personal identification. Similar to Elliot's case, the next teenager had no clue that the fake check scam he pulled would end terribly for him. >> So the reported right now at this [music] point and you know this is not a signature on the account as well. >> So they reported his account because they already knew that he they stolen this information. >> All right. It's that money you got yesterday. That five grand. What'd you do with it? Where's it at? >> Huh? >> One lawyer. >> On July the 1st, 2025, 19-year-old Harry Berto Varela was apprehended at a local bank after he was reported for cashing a fake check at a different location the day before. The cops were immediately notified about Harry Berto's presence after he was recognized by a bank official when he went in to cash another check worth $8,000. The events that followed afterwards would expose Harry Berto's long chain of crime. >> So the customer is not [music] even in Florida. So and you know and we give you the cash. Okay. But we give it the cash to you like $5,000 or the cash was depositing into the account and it was recorded. So the account is being recorded right now at [music] this point and you know this is not the signature on the account as well. So we want to know >> what's the person's name on the >> Let me talk. What's the person's name? >> Randy John. >> And what's your name? >> Yeah, that's your name. I say no, bro. >> We can go to the office. >> Yeah, I'll talk to you. Is that that one? Yeah. So they opened the account on Saturday. >> While Harry Berto remained detained in a back room, the officer proceeded to speak with a staff member who relayed the boy's fraudulent story. >> So it's a teen check, so it's our customer. and he went to open an account into a branch to be able to cash the check for this amount. So he knew that if he have a TD bank check and he's not a customer, we're not going to cash it. >> Mhm. >> So he opened the account during the weekend. So come back on Monday to Lake location branch and [music] since it's a TD bank check, we can verify the funds right away and cash it. ble to cash it and give it the 5,000 something to him and then the rest deposit into his debit card. >> So he took out >> Yeah. >> withdrew 5,000. >> He withdraw the 5,000 >> from the current account. >> Okay. Position here >> on the store supervisor. >> So they reported his account because they already knew that he they stolen this information from this account. >> Okay. And and what was the location that he got the money from? >> Like what road? This one. At this point, the teenager had yet to grasp the severity of the allegations levied against him and continued to treat the matter with so much nonchalance. Step on face on the car. Put the feet. Hey, what's up, dudes? So, I'm Detective Okconor. Um, clearly you're under arrest. So, I'm going to read you your rights, okay? And then I'm going to talk to you about a few things and we'll take you back to the district where there's air conditioning and, you know, all that jazz. So, I'm required to warn you before you make any statement that you have the following constitutional rights. You have the right to remain silent and not answer any questions. Any statement can and will be used against you in a court of law. If he has your phone, we can get it. I promise. >> I need some phone numbers I got to take down. >> What's that? >> Some phone numbers I wanted to take down. >> Okay. Yeah, we can get it. He's not going to be far away. We can call him. We know who he was. I know the guy kind of. All right. Listen. So, quick question. That black car. Is that the car you came in? >> Yeah, >> it is. Okay. Whose car is that? >> My grandma's car. >> Your grandma's car. Where's the keys at? >> They took them. >> Who took it? >> That dude in that car took >> the deputy has the keys? >> As far as I know. >> You had the keys on you, though? >> Yeah. >> Was somebody else in the car? >> What? >> Was somebody else in the car with you when you came here? >> No. >> No. Okay. So, you got out and you walked in, you had the keys on you, and when you got arrested, you had the keys on you. >> I just got to find the keys. >> He took my phone, my wallet, the keys. That's all. >> Okay. We'll we'll we'll get all that. Um, your grandma know you have your car. her car. >> Yeah. >> You live with her? >> Huh? >> Cuz I'd rather your grandma be able to come get it than us tow it? >> Yeah. >> I don't think my grandma >> My grandma, she's a half blind. >> She's what? >> Like half blind or whatever. >> Half blind. >> Do you have any other like adults in the house? >> Like with your grandma? >> I can't have anybody but the registered owner, but maybe your grandma can come with brother or you know what I mean? >> Okay, I'll call her in just a minute. Um, have a seat in the car for me and then we'll find out where your phone and keys and everything are. So, um, you know what you're doing here? >> What? >> Like, do you know why you're arrested? >> Nobody told me. >> What's that? Nobody told you. All right. So, this is about a check from yesterday. The check that you cashed yesterday at the other bank. You know what I'm talking about? >> Yeah. >> Okay. What? Which bank was that? That was the one on Lakew Worth Road. The TD. >> How old are you? >> 19. 19. Yes, sir. >> You don't know where you cash a check. You got a job? >> No. >> Huh? >> No. >> No. You go to school? >> Just got out. >> Just got out. Graduated high school. >> No, I graduated high school like 2 years ago. >> So, what school were you at? >> CEO of truck driving. >> Oh, truck driving. You got any criminal history? Never been arrested before. It's brand new, huh? All right. So, that money you got yesterday, that five grand. What'd you do with it? Where's it at? >> Huh? >> Talk to one lawyer. >> All right. >> Harry Betto's refusal to speak to the officers about the allegations screamed guilty in every way possible. And when the cops searched his vehicle, they found several incriminating items that further worsened his situation. There's a firearm in the condition of a felony. >> He is not even a little bit a victim anymore. Can I prove a firearm? >> Can I prove the firearm? >> Uh, right now I wouldn't do it. It's just later on. >> Yeah. >> I would do the DNA for it. >> Mhm. >> And then just have them add it on. >> Harry Bberto went from being investigated for fraud to becoming a suspect in other hardened crimes. With the nature of items found in his vehicle, it was crucial for the cops to search his house, but that proved to be a difficult feat when they met with his resistant mother. No, they're not because I this is my property. I don't want nobody in my property to license that warrant. This is my house. I own this house. This is in my name. I don't want anybody in my house without my permission. >> Listen, >> that's my right and my god-given right in the law. I didn't get nobody's permission to be in my home. This is my home. >> Can I speak? >> Yes. But if there's someone in the home, I don't want them in the home. >> Okay. So, let me let me >> Is there an officer in the home? >> With your mother. >> With your mother. >> I need them out of my home. I don't give anyone permission to be in my house. Okay, ma'am. Your your your mother your mother was in a >> Your mother is not the owner of this resident. I am they rent this property for me. I am the owner. You are not the owner. They're in control. >> I'm the owner. My name is You are not in control. Do >> you need to see that? >> I do not need to see that. >> I'm the owner of this res. >> I don't care. I don't need to see that. >> So, at this point, >> I need a sergeant or I am the sergeant. >> There he is. >> I'm the owner of this property. >> If you let me talk, if you let me talk, I can explain it to you. Okay. Next thing, if you continue your attitude, I'm going to tell you to get into your expedition and you're going to leave and I'm not going to tell you anything. >> I do not care. >> Literally own it. I have the >> Do not care. My home. When you're ready for me to talk, I will talk. >> I'm listening. >> Okay. So, we are doing a good thing for your mother. Your mother is in a in a t-shirt. We walked her in so she could put a dress on so that her husband can take her out to dinner. We are securing this place. We are writing a search we are writing a search warrant. Once the search warrant gets approved, we are going to go in and then we're going to search it. >> Your your son is in in custody right now. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> For a case. >> Okay. >> That's what led us here. >> So take all your frustration out on your son, not on us. >> Not on him. I just asked if there if my house is being searched by permission. >> We are not searching your house right now. We are literally just standing by to let your mom grab clothes. >> Okay. cuz my mother called frantic. So I don't know what's happening. >> That's it. So if you want to hang out, you're more than welcome. >> I will. But you could see I'm in pajamas, too. I can't My mother, I come running for >> But nobody's allowed inside the house. >> I'm running for my mother. >> Nobody's going to be allowed inside the house until we get the search warrant. >> And what is my son under arrest? >> He's an adult. >> Okay. >> So it's an ongoing investigation. You see, there comes your mother with her clothing. >> And where's my mother's vehicle? >> We're probably going to tow it. No, I'm just asking cuz that's as soon as we get the tow information, we'll let you know. >> Okay. Uh Okconor, >> these were the the brothers. I don't know if they you need to talk to them or >> uh who's who? >> You have nothing to say without a lawyer present. You have nothing. That's it. You have nothing to say without a lawyer present. Period. >> Amazing. >> Do you have an attorney? Uh does he have an attorney already? I don't know anything about charges. I don't know what >> we can't talk to. Okay. So, we can't talk to them. So, so we're asking if you have an attorney. >> Not as of yet. >> Okay. All right. So, whenever you guys get the attorney because if it goes that way, then if you can provide it to us. >> Okay. >> And then what you guys can do if you guys want to start heading over to your expedition, you're not going to be allowed in front of the the on the premises until we get the surge horn. Okay. >> We're off on the right here. >> You guys can post up there. That's fine. >> No problem. I appreciate it. Thank you for your cooperation. >> It was apparent that this mother was trying to cover up for her criminal son. But no matter how hard she tried to manipulate the situation, she could not escape the punishment that was to come. >> Fortunately, we were trying to determine who lives here, but you are turning him up, so we can't ask him the questions we're going to be asked if he resides here. And if he says he lives here, it could incriminate him because we find something there that we're looking for and it's got his name on it. >> So, that must be the brother we were wanting to know about. >> Yeah. Thank you for the answer. >> Well, no one asked me for this. >> You just answered it. Thank you. >> No one answer. >> No problem. >> You said they they rent the place for me, right? >> And that's under me. They don't >> It doesn't matter. It doesn't matter. They're the occupants. >> They're the occupants. They're the occupants of the residence. [music] >> But the only other option you have, ma'am, right, is to call an attorney and have them try to intervene. They're going to get served with the warrant. They'll get a copy of the warrant. by law. I'm the one that owns the property. >> Obviously, you don't know the law. >> That's not what they're You have to listen to what he's telling you. >> You're not You're not >> It's like if you rent a property, right, >> and your landlord comes over there and what the police says, "Yeah, go ahead and go inside." And you're like, "But I'm renting it. This is my house. You can't come in." He's like, "No, I own it." You go inside. >> You see what? You see the conflict? >> If you told us right now, I own the house. Go search it. We tell you no because you don't occupy it. They occupy it. We're getting a search warrant because they told us your son doesn't want anybody in his room. Therefore, they were going to let us search his room, but we're doing the right thing and say, >> "Oh, Eddie Berto, Patty Berto doesn't even live here." >> Oh, okay. Well, then your your parents are liars then. >> Petty Berto lives with me at my residence and then he went to live with his girlfriend. He's been living with a friend for like 6 months. >> Okay. Okay. >> No, that's honestly. >> Then your mom and dad need to go to the doctors cuz they both got dementia. >> They got us. >> Hear that? Yeah, they're real good. >> They're scared. They don't know what to say. They're scared. That's one of my >> Your dad seems pretty cool. >> Dad's actually really cool working for >> My son was just living with me until maybe like 6 8 months ago, but I didn't know if I'm living. >> Yeah, he is. >> I love you. >> With you. [music] Oh, okay. How did you find out so quick? >> Who told you? >> Hello. >> Who told you? >> Your mom. Oh, I love you. I'm going to call you later when I figure everything out. [music] >> Gary Bura was charged with felony grand theft, uttering forged documents, fraudulent use of personal ID, and organized scheme to defraud. In the next case, a serial scammer tried to cash out $9,000 by claiming to have a 4-year-old's check from an employer. >> The check that you came to cash today was from this employee that you used to work at that you don't remember the name. >> No, I don't. I mean, yes, but >> you and I both looked at this check and you just told me that it was fake pretty much. >> Yes. >> I I spoke to the teller when he said you came out here trying to check. >> No, I didn't. On August the 7th, 2024, officers with the Orlando Police [music] Department rushed to a Sea Coast bank after a 911 call reported a woman attempting to cash a [music] fake check. When they arrived, bank employees, just as stunned as the officers watched in disbelief as the scam artist, brimming [music] with confidence, tried to pass off the fraudulent check as legitimate. >> One thing she told me was that all her checks starts with a number four. This one doesn't have a number four. the bank though, the check number the person from like the facts that they're on [clears throat] right now. Yeah. >> So, she said that they getting positive pay when that comes through in their system. So, whoever like if they were to go to let's say Chase, right, and negotiating there >> once it comes into their system, they got positive pay. So, they able to reject those checks cuz they could see that it's clear fraud. So, she said that this is not the first time that she receives a call because of fraud going on. I feel bad, but we have to follow up because you know they ask us to call you guys. >> Feel bad if she's doing fraud. I mean, >> oh, you got people sometimes that, you know, >> I mean, if a check came to your house, I would just not >> go to a random C [laughter] it like >> No. And it's funny, we got some even us as employees, we get calls or texts or checks and I'm like that's fraud. >> Yeah. Right. So, but some people just, you know, >> she came in, she said that she worked for this company. >> So, she said she used to work for them during the pandemic and then during the pandemic they disappeared, >> right? And she received a check from them on the the checks dated the 10 >> and she was like surprised because they disappeared. >> Okay. >> So, I was like that's interesting. you know, [snorts] four years later, they send you a check randomly. [music] Like, I said, "Did they notify you? Did you call them?" Like, she said she didn't. She's like, "I was so busy doing other things." >> I didn't. So, she's like, "I just wanted you guys to look at it to make sure it's real so that I can cash it." Cuz I asked her what she's looking to do with it, right? And that's what she said. So, as soon as I looked at it, I knew it was fake. and I didn't give her any information cuz I don't want her to know what it is exactly where things need to be >> what we look for. >> So, I just said, you know, we're going to go ahead and verify. But it just her story wasn't I was like, is this the amount that you were expecting that they owed you? And she's like, kind of. Um, you know, I I make roughly this a week. And she's like, I'm not really good with >> How could you tell it was fake? So the >> to be honest, so this right here, right? It looks like a type like you're typing it on a typewriter or something >> signature. >> Um this is not supposed to be there. It's supposed to be up here. >> Okay. >> Memo is not supposed to be there. It's supposed to be below here. >> Right. >> And then just the font. >> It's just you see how it says date. The font. It's it's just really I mean you have date and then that's like a different font. Like it's just all over the place. And then the signature >> and if you was to see a check from that company, the signature like close. >> Okay. >> Nowhere near close. >> And they have like a logo on the side and all that. So it's >> So as soon as I saw the faded seos and the signature card, the signature, sorry, signature for me, it was this, this, and this. >> Okay. >> I kind of gave it away. So you got some letters that are bigger than the others. >> I was like, those are the signals that we look for. >> But she she came in today to cash this check. >> Yeah, that was her one. >> It wasn't just to like verify if it was fake or not. It was it was to make sure that it was legit and it was also I said what are you looking to do today? I think I put >> verifying. Hold on. >> Yeah. So, uh she said that she [music] thought it was odd that she received it but wanted us to verified in order to cash. Okay. >> Yeah. >> All right. Perfect. >> Yeah. But she 100% >> said she was going to cash it or wanted to cash it. After gathering the bank employees statement, the officers turned [music] to the woman, hoping she could clear things up. But with every answer she gave, she only made her story more suspicious. >> Where did you work? >> Nordstrom. >> No, no, no, no. Where this check came from? >> What it says on the paper? It was at it was on Sand Lake and it was with >> How long did you work at this company? >> About a couple years ago. >> But how long did you work there? >> A year before the pandemic. So, I've worked at places for just a few months and I still remember where I worked. >> No, I mean I know where I worked, but I'm saying like it was with it was call center. It was a call center job >> for >> um O, CVS and what was the the gas company? They all was in one building. >> What gas company? >> A gas company in up north. Who gave you the check? >> It was mailed to me. >> It was mailed to you with no other paperwork. Correct. >> No other paperwork, sir. >> Who was your direct supervisor? >> My supervisor was Michael. >> Michael what? >> Well, I had two of them. One was Michael. Then the other one was um I don't remember the other Michael's name, but one was a supervisor and the other one was a manager. I don't remember the manager's cast name. cuz I didn't stick around long enough to Well, I say I didn't stick around long enough, but you only meet the ones you kind of associate with. >> Mhm. >> And he was a manager. >> Supervisor. >> Can you have his phone number? >> It's way too many numbers. That's the number on the text app now cuz we use that's what they was using and that's I left it in my text now number. I mean not text now what's up. >> It's a WhatsApp number. >> Mhm. >> Do you have texts with that person? >> Not no more. I just have them when they when I try to call it. >> You have no text through WhatsApp right now? >> No. This text that I text is is like my actual phone number. Can I see? >> This is through my text now. Not text now, my text messages. And >> um >> what did that one say? Something about a bank. >> That's my cousin. This one is my cousin. The bank. They're going to wire me money to my bank. >> Is that something totally different? >> Totally different. >> So, where's the What's at? >> This one. See, that's the number. >> Can you open it? >> And these are all the messages here. >> And this is with >> Michael. >> Mhm. >> Can I see that? >> But I'm not going to lie to you. I do. We're in a relationship. Well, was in a relationship. So, some of it, you know, when he did call me babe, whatever. And then I just texted him. I was like, "How did the company send a fake check?" And he's like, he thought we cashed you weeks ago. And I was like, "I didn't because I didn't have time. I was working." Like, I'm literally telling you the 100% truth. Like, I have nothing to do with any fraud stuff. None of that. >> Hm. >> What's your name? >> My name Ashley. I can even dial the number for you. And I text him today and I said, "Hey, they said that the check is fake." that I was like, "How did you I was about to tell hey like hey you got a text and you know the checks and stuff like that as of today like you see today's text message I said hey they sent a check that's fake." >> Despite her desperate attempts to prove her innocence, her statement was riddled with glaring inconsistencies only making the officers more certain that she was trying to fabricate a story to escape the mess she had created. cuz he got one too. And other companies, like I told you, other employees, they got one. So, I'm letting him know like, hey, you know, don't go through the same thing that I'm going through now. So, I'm literally telling the truth 100%. I I literally have nothing to hide. I I never been in this predicament before. >> All right. You want to have a seat? >> My name is Carlos. Nice to meet you. What's your last name? >> Have a seat. Sit down. Relax. >> This is even more stressful because I don't even have to deal with the law. >> Right. >> They read your rights already. >> Okay. You ever had your rights read to you before or is it the first time? >> This is the first time. That's I said I never been arrested. I never had anything to do with no type of fraud stuff. I >> Okay. >> Like this. Never. So, what happened today? I know you it seems like you probably already detailed it that I am, but just so you can catch me up on game so I know what's going on. >> Last month, I got a check by mail from the company that I used to work for um >> last month. >> Yeah. >> Okay. What was the name of the company? >> It was um I don't remember the name. I just know it was a call center, but they had closed down >> right when the pandemic hit and we was working from home, but then been kind of not going to say destroy. >> Okay. >> But >> how long did you work there? >> A year. >> A year. >> 6 months to the year before the pandemic came around. >> Okay. >> So, >> and you don't remember the name of the company? >> No, not even. I'm sorry. It's just I I worked so many jobs after that just trying to stay up with >> bills and everything. >> Um >> but >> you got direct deposit from them or did you get paid by check from them? >> From them I got direct deposit. That was like a long time ago with a old bank like >> Okay. So you don't bank with that bank? >> I don't bank with Chase no more. >> Okay. So when you work for them, you bank with Chase? >> Yes. Yes. >> You had direct deposit from them via Chase? >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Um then after I left from that job, I went and started working. I didn't go to McDonald's right away. >> Mhm. >> I applied for McDonald's, but they said I don't have the qualification skills. So I went >> Really? >> Wow. Okay. >> So I went to SeaWorld, got hired at SeaWorld Universal. And um >> So who you thanking now? Additional finance. >> Okay. So from Chase you went to additional finance or >> No, I went to like a different bank. I went to one small one. >> Why you keep moving banks? >> Cuz like >> I had Chase bank since I was in high school. >> I mean it was like >> you know >> well first I started with Bank America and then >> you know they start talking about how Bank America is scamming people and stuff and that's why I moved Chase. >> Okay. And then my understanding is the check that you came to cash today was from this employee that you used to work at that you don't remember the name. >> No, I don't I mean yes, but >> Mhm. >> I worked at several jobs. I'm not a type of person to scam anybody. Like I ain't never listen. I don't think you're the type of person that's going to scam anybody. What raised the officer's suspicions even more was that she could barely recall any details about the company she claimed to have worked for an entire year. Yet, she was somehow certain the check came from them. >> But I have had co-workers hit me up on Facebook. >> And they was like, "Hey, do you remember the company we used to work for?" Like was like, "Girl, I don't remember half the places I worked." I was like, "Well, sure. What about it?" And they were like, "Oh, well, they sent me a check for $7,000." I was like, "Oh, okay. That's >> kudos to you." I mean, I don't really need it cuz >> I'm making ends meet with the two little jobs that I got. Even though it's still a little struggle. >> Mhm. >> And I might have to pick up a third job when summer starts. I mean, summer ends. >> But other than that, like, you know, I just been, you know, working, >> making it work, >> living from paycheck to paycheck, basically. >> Okay. >> You know, >> that way you work for a company that's on a check that you don't remember the name. Um, who was the manager there? Who was your supervisor? >> Michael. My supervisor was Michael. >> And did you work directly for that company? >> Yes. >> Got kids. >> Two kids. >> Yeah. >> How old are they? >> Seven and eight. >> Seven and eight. Where they at right now? >> My friend's house. And I'm going to go get them from her house cuz they was playing with her kids. >> Okay. Uh, you dropped or you were you over there? You dropped them off and then came here or >> No, I think we alternate. She's a single parent. I'm a single parent. So, we kind of hand in hand best friends. Just one weekend she'll babysit. >> Mhm. >> One weekend I'll babysit just to give us some free time. >> So, let's talk about the check. What's the deal with the check? You said you got it in the mail. >> I got it in the mail just like everybody else that reached out to me on social media. Mhm. >> Well, one girl called me through social media and she was like um >> just bragging about the check >> pretty much. She I guess she didn't have my direct phone number anymore. >> So, she called me through social media >> and she was like, "Hey, remember the company we saw?" I was like, "Girl, I don't remember half the things I did >> before the pandemic or even during the pandemic." >> And she was like, "Um, >> well, the company, they sent us they sent me a check." And I'm like, "Okay." Was like, "For what?" And she was like, "Remember when you worked and had shut down?" >> All of this 7:30. I was like, "Oh." I was like, "Okay." I was like, "Well, was it worth?" You know, I was like, she was like, "The check was $7,800." And I was like, >> I was like, "Okay." I was like, >> you know, like, "Hey, good for you." type vibe. >> That's what I was kind of telling her. And then she was like um she was like yeah >> what friend is that? >> Jessica. >> Jessica. You got her the phone number? >> No. What's her last name? >> I don't even know her last name. I'm not even going to lie. >> You got her on social media. Can you pull it up on your social media? >> But to be honest, I think she locked me cuz I think she thought I felt jealous. >> No offense. I don't I don't know cuz I went to go back to try to call her and when I got mine I couldn't find your foot. >> How long after she had got hers did you get yours? >> Three weeks later. >> 3 weeks later. >> So she got one I want to say >> when you when you worked for this company. Did they owe you any money? >> We were supposed to get paid one more check or at least No, between one to two more checks. >> One to two more checks >> because we did work from home. >> Mhm. um when they shut the office and stuff down because >> How much did you get paid when you were there? >> 15 $15 an hour. >> $15 an hour. You work $40 a week. >> And then we got paid every two weeks. >> Every two weeks. So about roughly How much was that? >> Sometimes my checks would be at 9 then sometimes my checks will be roughly around 8 >> 100. Okay. >> And then sometimes my check will be like 990. >> Okay. So, it's fair to say if you were owed >> 2 months 2 months you're worth of money >> at 1,800 bucks a month on the high end >> without Yeah, without >> you're still at 3,600 bucks if you were owed money. >> Yes, >> it's probably not going to be 9,000. >> That's exactly what I said when I check my calculations. >> At this point, she was beginning to realize that the officers [music] weren't buying her story. Desperate to salvage her lie, she spun an even more elaborate yarn. But this time, it was beginning to seem like she was likely going to trap [music] herself even deeper in the mess she had already created. >> Yeah, that don't add up. >> It didn't add up. So, I'm like, "Okay, let me >> let me see here." Like, um, >> did you call the company? >> I tried. It was the number I had tried to call was no longer service. >> When did you try to call them? 4 days after I got the check. >> Okay. And which was when a month ago? >> And then after that, I just been busy moving and working my jobs and trying to just stay afloat. I kind of was like, well, you know, even with friends of mine, I'm not going to say friends, let's just say. >> So, you've been trying to stay afloat >> basically. You've been working, hustling, and you got this $9,000 check a month ago, but yet you don't you don't think let me go cash this check to help me out. >> No, I I've been doing it, you know, now like, >> you know what I mean? >> Mhm. >> On [music] my own with the >> kind of kind of know what you mean. >> Just stretching out my paychecks, you know, from here and there. >> This is me as a reasonable person. If I'm owed some money and I'm stretching my paychecks out, living paycheck to paycheck, right? It's a reasonable person here now and I get a check that's owed to me for $9,000. I'm cashing that baby right away. Right. >> Right. But I mean I I didn't think nothing of it cuz I was kind of skeptical about cashing checks anyways. >> So I was like no. And then I you know I talked to my family members and you know >> um >> family members and other associates that got theirs. I was like, "Did that check was like legit?" And he was like, >> "Yeah." And some never responded. I was like, "So, you skeptical about the check?" >> I just kind of just pushed it to the side cuz I had a lot going. >> Why? Why were you skeptical about the check? >> Because >> Was it the way that it looked? >> Yeah. >> Looking at this check, right? Using everything that you pointed out to me, right? It's probably fair to say this is a fake check. >> Yes. >> Yeah. Right. >> That's why I didn't That's why I didn't bother to go to my bank. [clears throat] I came directly to this bank to say, "Hey, can you guys verify you guys' check >> and let me know like, hey, if it's legit, whatever, whatever, and go from there." >> Okay. Um >> All right. I appreciate you for talking with me, but now I have a couple questions for you. Okay? And this is where I just want you to be truthful with me. >> Hold on. Hold on. Hold on. Hold on. >> Cuz you ain't been 100%. And that's okay cuz I I got a quick memory. It happened. It's gone. I ain't worried about it anymore. Okay. But I am worried about you at this point >> cuz someone got you in here cashing a check then you know it's like okay hold on let's >> I looked at it by the mail and that's why I kind of was like I brushed it off. >> I was going to shred it myself >> but like I said >> yeah yeah >> other co-workers and friends and not family but they somewhat like family. Oh yeah it's a legit check cash it. You know I have my money type whatever. But but you you and I both looked at this check and you just told me that it was fake. Pretty much. >> Yes. >> I I spoke to tell and he said >> you came out here trying to cash. >> No, I did. >> After admitting she knew the check was fake, she scrambled to claim that she had never intended to cash it. But by then she had lied so much that the officers [music] weren't buying a single word. >> I was really skeptical about this check that I got in the mail from a company. that you just pointed out to me multiple different reasons and multiple different things about the check that you knew was fake. Why are you coming here wasting time and do that? >> Because like I said >> Mhm. >> cuz of other employees I used to work with. >> Okay. You trying to cover up? >> I'm not This is not going to go well for you. >> You are a person with no criminal history with children who are way down. Who are you talking to on the phone? Michael and this text me. I say, "Hey, the company that you said for they sent the check." And I said, they said that the check. >> They said, "Didn't you cash the check?" I said, "No, cuz he asked me if I passed the check." When I got it, I said no because I wasn't working. What? Whatever. >> What number is this? >> That's the WhatsApp number. That's how I communicate with him. >> Is this the person who >> works with the company? Well, >> is this the person who sent you the check? >> Yes, we both used cuz clearly at the bottom right there, you can see when he said, "I'll send a check for your expenses." >> What does this person have you doing? Tell me tell me the the rundown. >> This is Michael. Me and him both used to work at the company together. Not that company, but the call center. And he was telling me that he'll help me [music] pay for my expenses because I was telling him that I was having little problems, you know, minor work. They didn't get me down on my vehicle. And he was like, "Okay, no worry. I got you. I'll send you a check by mail. You can cash it." And then like as of today, you can put a receipt right here. Like right here. When I had told him, I was like, "Hey, the check that you sent me for." I was like, when I told him he was like, "Hey, the check that you got, the check that you got and you sent >> I don't see what you're saying." >> No, >> you're saying something that's not on the phone. So, I know I'm cashing the check that you sent me. All right. You're saying you got a month ago by this company. Now, it's from this Michael guy. >> Who doesn't work at the company? Cuz I already talked to the company. So, you finally have a day off. Hi. What the hell? The check is not real. >> Hi, what do you mean? Well, you knew the check wasn't real cuz you explained it to me, which is why you've been holding on to it for a month. >> And this number is like an overseas phone number. >> That's the reason why we had literally stopped. We really like, you know. >> Have you ever seen this person in our life? >> Yes. We used to work together. >> How do you know it's the same person? >> Because he knows my kid's name. He called months ago for one of my kids' birthday. >> Okay. And then once you cash this check, what are we supposed to do with the car? >> It was supposed to take care of my expenses. >> Expenses for what? >> Whatever I needed around the house or my my car needed to be repaired, but I got that done. >> So, I'm literally telling you the truth. I have nothing to do with any fraud. >> So, this guy gave you a check to cover your expenses that you don't even know who this is. cuz it can be anybody's anybody's name. >> Me and used to work together after the call. >> Okay. Um All right. >> I'm not lying to you. Like I don't have nothing to lie about. Like all I want to do right about now is like now I'm starting to feel like uncomfortable. I just want to go home cuz like now I'm starting to like >> realizing her fate was sealed. She made one last desperate attempt to talk her way out of it. But by this point, the officers had heard enough. She had been lucky or smart enough to get away with her craft in the past. This time it was definitely going to be different. >> Well, unfortunately, you're not going to go on to your kids right now, >> right? >> Okay. >> Because you just [clears throat] tried to catch a picture. >> I didn't try to cash anything. I literally came here, asked the lady. You can even go get her. I asked her to verify. >> And then you told me to check from this country. >> Yes. Now you're telling me the checks from this guy that has some overseas phone number that you're saying is Michael that you've never seen this person? >> I have seen him before. We used to work. >> How do you know that's Michael texting me one time? >> Because he said he couldn't use his phone cuz he's overseas. And then after that that's literally the reason why I'm telling you the truth. >> Like no lies, no none of that. Like I literally have no intent of scamming anybody. I literally I go to a night job later tonight. I have literally no type of anything. Like I'm honestly telling you the truth. Like real deal. Like I literally came here and asked the lady, "Can she verify this?" Because I said, "I don't want to take it to my bank because like I'm a little skeptical about my, you know, my institution that I bank with because babe, >> well, the issue was you knew the check was fake." >> But I didn't even cash it though. That's the thing. I asked that lady, "Can she verify? I say, "Hey, I I literally you can go and get her." >> Okay. >> Cuz I literally said I said, "Hey, can you please verify this?" Cuz I said, "I don't deal with checks." And I was like, "I'm a little skeptical because um a check came in the mail from a company that I used to work for years ago that closed down." And I was like, "This these numbers don't add up." And I was like, "I don't even want to go to my bank cash." I even told her, I called up here and I said, "Hey, I have a check by mail from you guys's bank." Mhm. >> She said, "You just have to bring the check in." >> Yeah. >> Exactly. So, I didn't do nothing wrong. I didn't even say cash the check. I literally asked her to verify it and do whatever they need to do. >> Okay. I'm just going to swear to you real quick just to verify tell the truth. Okay. So, just raise your right hand. You saw me swear part of the testimony you just gave in this case was the truth. The whole truth. Nothing but the truth. >> Yes. That's the whole truth. I'm so serious. I've never been arrested before. I never had instances anything. It's just like it's really difficult for me to even try to process this because it's like I've never had to to do any of this before. >> All right, Ashley, stand up for us. >> Can I call my mom first? >> I'm sure we can we can go ahead and contact her in a second. >> No, I want to contact her and let her know, please. >> Okay, >> can I can I please call her? >> No, we'll call her in a second. Say, >> I'm telling you the truth, though. Like, I'm doing anything to do. You guys don't even have to arrest me. Can I just call her, please? >> I'm sure they'll be able to call. >> I want to call my phone, please. >> At this point, you're going to be in the custody of she was taken to jail. In the end, she was taken to jail and charged with fraud.