Lottery Scam Alert: Residents Warned of Lottery Scam Targeting Hispanic Females

LongIsland.com

The Suffolk County Police Department is warning residents of a lottery scam specifically targeting Hispanic females.

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Investigators are asking anyone with information on the suspects to call anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS. Tipsters can receive a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest.

Suffolk County, NY - November 29, 2016 - The Suffolk County Police Department is warning residents of a lottery scam specifically targeting Hispanic females.

As part of the scam, the suspects, usually working in pairs, approach a victim and state they won the lottery but cannot receive the winnings because of their immigration status.  

The suspects, who are also Hispanic, will offer to split the prize money with the victim if the victim will agree to pick it up in their name. In most cases, once the victim agrees, the suspects will then ask for collateral from the victim, such as money or jewelry. If necessary, the suspects will drive the victim to her house to collect the valuables. The suspects immediately flee once they receive the items.

The Suffolk County Police Department advises residents not to give money or items of value to anyone they do not know. Anyone who believes they have been victimized under similar circumstances is advised to call 911 to report the incident to police. 

Investigators are asking anyone with information on the suspects to call anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS. Tipsters can receive a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest.