Woman Charged for Scamming Citizens Out of Money

SALEM, MA—A woman who had allegedly been approaching residents claiming she needed money for gas has been charged for scamming residents, police announced Wednesday.

A criminal complaint filed with Salem District Court charged Deshea St. Jacques with larceny under $250 under false pretense on May 4. Police said that St. Jacques had been approaching people asking for gas money.

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Police also allege that St. Jacques asked to use a person's phone, promising to repay them if they call the number she dialed.

An officer took a report from two females, who had given money to a woman in Downtown Salem. The women later saw a post on Facebook warning them of a scam, and recognized the female as the same one that they had given money to. The victims promptly reported the incident to police.

Additional investigations by other officers are ongoing and may result in additional charges.

Police are asking residents to contact them at 978-744-1212 if they have been scammed out of money.

Photo Credit: Salem Police Department (2014 photo of St. Jacques)

Editor's Note: This post was derived from information provided by the Salem Police Department. It does not indicate a conviction.