Gold Coin Bait-n-Switch Scam Bilks Victim of $19,000

The Clarkstown Detective Bureau needs your help in identifying the man shown in the attached video.

The detective bureau is investigating a fraudulent Maple Leaf Gold coin scam (bait and switch) that occurred on June 2 in Nanuet, NY.

The man, late 20-mid 30 years of age, 6ft. tall, 250-300 lbs with a black beard, was wearing a black baseball hat, black shirt, black pants and Prada Aviator glasses with yellow tint. He is the suspect in an ongoing investigation.

The man answered an ad listed on Craigs List that advertised the purchase of gold/valuable coins.

He told the man who posted the ad that his name was “John,” and agreed to meet and let him verify the validity of the coins at a local coin shop.

After verifying that the coins were legitimate, the victim returned to his auto, where “John” was waiting, and offered him $19,000 for the coins. “John” began acting nervous and restless and took the coins, which were in a pouch, back from the victim and placed them in his rear pants pocket.

The victim pleaded with “John” to make the deal. After a brief conversation, “John” took the money and handed the victim what appeared to be the same pouch containing the coins. “John” then exited the vehicle and left on foot.

The victim realized the coins were bogus after inspecting them.

The suspect was also observed on June 2, 2015 in the Village of Spring Valley attempting to run the same “bait and switch” scam. He was seen leaving the area, as a passenger, in a black BMW, possibly series 5.

Please view the attached video and call the Clarkstown Detective Bureau at 845-639-5840 if you have any information.