October 11, 2007
Even after five suspected con artists were arrested earlier this week, more elderly people have been taken for a ride right out of their savings.
"Our information is they actually trade names of victims; after one suspect would get a name of a victim, some of the others would go and try something similar with the same victim," said Charlottesville Police Lt. Gary Pleasants.
Now, Charlottesville Police are looking for 39-year-old Jesse Lee Meadows. He's wanted for conning a 93-year-old woman this week.
This is how the scam works. The con targets an elderly homeowner. They're persuasive and insist on doing tree, roofing or chimney work.
"Most of that is because they know these victims can't get on the roof and see if they have done anything at all," said Lt. Pleasants.
Then, they take their victim all the way to the bank figuratively and in this case literally.
Charlottesville Police say the teller became suspicious after cashing several checks, after viewing bank photos.
The suspect then dragged his victim into the bank for verification and when he got his money, "The second picture is of him leaving the bank and leaving her behind," said Lt. Pleasants.
Seniors we talked to say they've heard about these cons and say they won't be falling for their tricks.
"If I don't know him, why would I engage him and what's more, why would I give him a down payment for work he hasn't done? It's insane," said Carl Hull.
If you know where Jesse Meadows is, call Crime Stoppers at 434-977-4000.
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