Tulare County Sheriff Warns about New Scam Targeting Elderly

On August 13 at about 1:30 p.m., Tulare County Sheriff's Office deputies received a call about an elderly victim who had given a large amount of cash and physical property to someone posing as a member of the Apple Fraud Department and the Federal Trade Commission.

TCSO detectives took over the investigation and learned the suspects were still trying to get more cash from the victim.

On August 20, detectives were able to set up a meeting with the suspect, 25-year-old Navdeep Singh, and he was taken into custody.

Tulare County Sheriff Michael Boudreaux reminds the public that these scams often prey on the elderly. They typically start by informing the victims they are unknowingly part of some financial crime or scheme. They then give the victim a way out or offer a sense of security by turning money over for safekeeping until the crime has been resolved.

Victims have been known to give away cash, gift cards and even gold bars. This usually happens at a public place or over the phone, and the scammer typically keeps the victim on the phone and creates a sense of urgency.

TCSO urges the public to make their elderly family and friends who may not use social media aware of these scams. The sheriff's office also understands these cases are somewhat embarrassing for the victim. However, by making a report, you can prevent someone else from becoming a victim.

If you have any information regarding this case, you are asked to call the TCSO General Investigations Bureau at (559) 802-9400 and ask to speak with Detective Rosiles, Detective Melendez or Sergeant Rose.