A California man has been sentenced to 30 days in jail and ordered to pay $30,000 in restitution after nearly scamming an elderly couple in Colorado. The case, which highlights the dangers of online fraud, serves as a reminder of the tactics scammers use to exploit vulnerable individuals.
The Scam Unfolds
In March 2024, an 85-year-old man and an 83-year-old woman contacted law enforcement after falling victim to a scam that began with a pop-up on their computer. The pop-up prompted them to call what they believed was “Microsoft Support Services” to address a supposed issue. This was, in fact, a fraudulent scheme designed to manipulate the couple into giving away their money.
The suspect, identified as 28-year-old Arashdeep Dhaliwal, traveled from California to the couple’s home, where he collected $30,000 in cash. Just days later, he contacted them again, claiming they needed to pay an additional $70,000 to resolve a “bank account problem.” When their banks denied the withdrawal request, Dhaliwal instructed the couple to purchase gold as a means of payment.
Arrest and Legal Consequences
In April 2024, investigators arrested Dhaliwal and were able to recover the gold that had been purchased under duress. He later pleaded guilty to one count of theft as part of a plea agreement. The court’s decision to impose a 30-day jail sentence and restitution of $30,000 reflects the seriousness of the crime and the impact it had on the victims.
Larimer County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Sgt. Rita Servin emphasized the psychological manipulation often employed by scammers. “It can often be difficult for fraud victims to come forward, feeling guilty or ashamed that they fell for a scam,” she stated. “That’s exactly what scammers want. They isolate their victims and make them feel helpless.”
Community Awareness and Reporting
The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone who may have information about similar scams or Dhaliwal’s activities in other areas to come forward. They can be reached at 970-498-5100. This case serves as a crucial reminder for individuals, especially seniors, to remain vigilant against potential scams and to report any suspicious activity to authorities.
As scams continue to evolve, community awareness and education are vital in preventing future incidents. By sharing experiences and information, individuals can help protect themselves and others from falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
