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Attempted Theft by Deception, PIckrell

DATE & TIME: 07-12-2017 / 0800-1700 

LOCATION: Pickrell, Nebraska                     

OFFENSE: Attempted Theft by Deception     

CASE #: 2017-3767

A Pickrell resident reported an attempted theft by deception to the Gage County Sheriff’s Office on 07-12-2017.  The resident had placed an item for sale on Craigslist and received a response from that ad and, after several text messages, the buyer agreed to pay the full price, plus he was willing to add $5,500.00 to the purchase price and stated he was sending a check.

The seller immediately became suspicious, contacted a relative, and the relative encouraged him to report the incident to the Gage County Sheriff’s Office.  An investigator from the sheriff’s office confirmed the seller’s suspicions and advised him the “buyer” would most likely send a fraudulent check, potentially gaining access to the victim’s banking information and/or send someone to collect the item being sold on Craigslist as well as the additional $5,500.00, leaving the victim without the property and potentially liable for $20,500.00 fraudulent check, bank fees and charges.

The resident did receive a check from the suspect and he brought it to the sheriff’s office.  The check was a forgery, with incorrect bank routing and account information, and the words, “Official Check” on it. 

The investigator advised the Pickrell resident to not respond to any further contact from the suspect, advise him the matter has been reported to the sheriff’s office and for the suspect to contact Gage County Sheriff’s Office investigators to have the matter resolved.  In this case, the Pickrell resident has not lost any money and he was advised to monitor his financial transactions, mail, and credit history and accounts.

The Gage County Sheriff’s Office urges citizens to use caution when dealing with online purchases and sales and to verify all information before committing to any transaction.  Anyone with suspicions should contact their local police department or call the Gage County Sheriff’s Office and ask to speak with an investigator.    

Sheriff Millard “Gus” Gustafson #903

Investigator T. Hanson #90310