Two arrested in connection to a scam targeting elderly Perry resident

PERRY — The Perry Police Department is investigating a scheme involving an elderly resident who withdrew about $70,000. Two individuals have already been arrested, the department says. 

The investigation identified 26-year-old James L. Card from Macon. He is being charged with Theft by Extortion, Elderly Exploitation and Impersonation of an Officer. The other individual is 31-year-old Tykeria L. Washington, also from Macon. She is being charged with Elderly Exploitation. 

According to a media release, on Sept. 21 the PPD, with assistance from the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, began investigating a missing-person report involving the resident. The investigation determined the victim was actively being targeted by individuals impersonating federal, court and law enforcement officials. 

The individuals threatened the victim with arrest and instructed her to remain in continuous telephone contact, keep the matter confidential, withdraw cash, purchase cryptocurrency, use retail payment barcodes and deliver money to other individuals. 

During the active scam, officers used the Flock Safety camera system to locate the victim’s vehicle. Officers located the victim and intervened before the individuals could obtain additional money from her. 

Financial records confirm the victim withdrew about $63,000 during the scheme, the press release says, but also reported an estimated total loss of about $70,000; a portion of that was recovered during the investigation. 

The investigation remains active. Additional participants, telephone numbers, financial accounts and payment recipients are still being identified, according to the department. 

They – officials – also want to remind the public that legitimate courts and government agencies do not demand payment through Bitcoin kiosks, retail payment barcodes, Apple Cash, gift cards or cash couriers. Government agencies will not instruct a person to keep payment confidential from family members or local law enforcement, the department said.

They also encourage anyone receiving this type of communication to immediately stop contact, avoid sending money or identification documents and contact their local law enforcement agency.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact Detective Talley with the Perry Police Department at 478-988-2800.