Sweepstakes Scam

DATE & TIME: August 7th - October 19th, 2017

LOCATION: Odell, Nebraska

OFFENSE: Theft By Deception / Sweepstakes Scam

CASE #: 2017-5769      

A Beatrice resident who banks in Odell, sent approximately $9,000.00 to unknown persons at various locations, including a bank in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She was told she was a “sweepstakes winner” and would need to forward money for taxes to people in order to have her sweepstakes winnings paid to her.

At one point, the victim sent a Cashier’s Check for $5,500.00 to the suspects who attempted to cash the check at a bank in Florida. Due to irregularities with the check and the person presenting the check to the bank, the cashier’s check was not paid and is possibly still being held at the Florida bank.

An investigator with the Gage County Sheriff’s Office contacted the State Bank of Odell, where the victim had an account, and was given information regarding the transactions. The victim was contacted and interviewed.  She turned over personal notes and records regarding the crime and is cooperating with the sheriff’s office investigation.  The State Bank of Odell is fully cooperating in the investigation and has been from the start.

The case is active and the sheriff’s office, officials at the State Bank of Odell, and banking officials in Florida will work together in an attempt to retrieve as much of the money that has been sent as possible. The victim indicated the suspects may originate out of Jamaica.

The Gage County Sheriff’s Office urges people to use extreme caution when dealing with financial matters and to contact trusted banking officials, family members, or an investigator at the sheriff’s office if they have a suspicious incident. Warning signs or signals are when they request you send them money in advance, bank or credit card information, or state they are going to circumvent normal business practices to avoid taxes or fees, as well as other actions.  

Sheriff Millard “Gus” Gustafson #903

Investigator T. Hanson #90310