Scammers posing as US federal agents in national fraud/theft scheme arrested

Government agencies will NEVER send people to your house to collect cash/checks/pre-paid debit or credit cards. It is ALWAYS fraud.”

Thurston County Sheriff's Office

Thurston County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) arrested a suspect posing as a US Customs and Border agent, taking money about supposed drug and money charges.

Last October 18, Thurston County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) deputies received a report of a massive fraud/theft scheme that had already amassed over $300,000.

“During the investigation, it was learned the subjects would call the victim and portray themselves as federal agents with US Customs and Border Patrol,” TCSO stated in a news release posted on October 20.

The fraudsters convinced the victim that drugs and money associated with their name had been intercepted and needed immediate attention.

The perpetrators provided seemingly authentic details the victim cross-referenced with government websites, adding to the victim's trust.

The suspects even went so far as to visit the victim's residence multiple times to collect money, purportedly to "safeguard" it during an impending court process.

However, suspicions finally arose, prompting the victim to contact law enforcement for assistance.

On October 19, TCSO detectives, the Thurston County Narcotics Task Force, and the FBI collaborated to conduct an operation and arrange a money exchange with the suspects.

The plan worked, leading to one of the suspects' arrest at a Bellevue hotel.

According to TCSO, the suspect’s modus operandi is part of a “large-scale, national fraud/theft scheme” still being investigated.

“No government agency will ask or demand money via phone, cell phone apps, or any other informal communication,” TCSO advised.

TCSO advises that when you encounter similar scenarios, “research the agencies yourself, and do not use provided websites. Even with research, criminals can use actual phone numbers and names of government officials. If you remain unsure, contact local law enforcement”, TCSO further advised. “Government agencies will NEVER send people to your house to collect cash/checks/pre-paid debit or credit cards. It is ALWAYS fraud.”

If you think you have fallen victim to a fraud scheme of this nature, please get in touch with the authorities immediately. You can contact dispatch at 360-704-2740 or via email to report the incident and seek assistance.