A Jackson woman has been ordered to stop participating in romance scams that target unsuspecting Americans. 70-year-old Holly Locke has agreed to a court order preventing her from assisting, facilitating, or participating in any romance scam.
The civil action, brought by U.S. Attorney Dawn N. Ison, is the first of its kind in the Eastern District of Michigan. It’s part of a broader trend by the Department of Justice to disrupt international fraud rings that target U.S. citizens through fake social media profiles.
According to court documents, Locke acted as a money transmitter after meeting a fraudster online and developing a romantic relationship. She would receive packages from strangers containing money, which she would then pass on to her fiancé/husband. The money was sent from victims who believed they were helping their online romantic partners and friends.
“This office is committed to using every tool at our disposal to protect Americans from fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Ison. “This consent decree cuts off the flow of money from the victims to the international fraudsters behind these scams.”
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is dedicated to safeguarding all Americans from individuals who attempt to exploit them through fraudulent and deceptive schemes,” said Inspector in Charge Rodney M. Hopkins of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Detroit Division.
The agencies involved in this effort urge consumers to be on the lookout for signs someone is trying to recruit them to receive and transmit fraud proceeds. Consumers are advised not to agree to receive money or checks mailed to them or sent to their bank account for someone they have met over the phone or online.
Those age 60 or older who have experienced financial fraud can seek help from the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Justice Department hotline provides personalized support to callers by assessing their needs and identifying relevant next steps.
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Key Facts
- State: Michigan
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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