Resident Suffers Significant Loss In Romance Scam: Newtown Twp. Crime Report

NEWTOWN TOWNSHIP, PA — The Newtown Township Police Department reported the following incidents between Feb. 20 and 25:

February 20

• At approximately 10:25 a.m., a Newtown Township resident contacted police to report a scam attempt. She received an email from someone claiming to have access to her phone with evidence of her wrongdoings. They threatened to send that evidence to all of her friends unless she paid them in Bitcoin. The resident recognized it as a scam and did not fall victim.

February 24

• Police were dispatched to a Newtown Township residence shortly before 2 p.m. for the report of a fraud-in-progress. The resident explained that his wife had gone to the bank to withdraw $15,000 in cash due to a message she received from someone claiming to be the FBI. Police confirmed that it was a scam and met with the wife at the bank to verify that her accounts were not jeopardized. No money was lost.

• Police were dispatched to a Newtown Township residence around 3:30 p.m. for the report of a romance scam, where the victim suffered significant financial loss. The investigation is ongoing. In romance scams, a criminal uses a fake online identity to gain a victim’s affection and trust. The scammer then uses the illusion of a romantic or close relationship to manipulate and steal from the victim. Operating on dating apps, social media, or email, these scammers often claim to be overseas for work, such as in the military or construction, to avoid in-person meetings. Never send money, gift cards, or provide bank details to someone you have not met in person.

• At approximately 6:15 p.m., a Newtown Township resident responded to headquarters to report identity theft. Police documented the incident and provided the resident with steps to take to protect her identity from future incidents.

February 25

• At approximately 11 a.m., police were dispatched to Acme Market for the report of retail theft. The investigation is ongoing.