East Providence Man Accused Of Running Vacation Scam

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — An East Providence man was arrested over the weekend and charged in connection with a vacation scam. 57-year-old Anthony DeBarros, of Seth Street, is accused of arranging a "vacation" to Aruba for 58 people.

According to East Providence police, each person payed DeBarros $1,000 for the trip. As the departure date neared, no itinerary was sent. DeBarros ignored calls from his victims or sent fake information.

Several of the victims became suspicious and called the police, who began an investigation into the alleged scam. Police determined that DeBarros had never actually booked or planned to book the trip, instead using the money to pay his bills and make other personal purchases.

DeBarros was arrested on Oct. 12 and charged with obtaining money under false pretenses and unlawful appropriation. Additional charges could be forthcoming, police said, as the investigation is ongoing. Victims are continuing to come forward and file complaints. Anyone who believes they may have also been a victim of DeBarros' scam is encouraged to contact the East Providence Police Detective Division at 401-435-7600, or their local police department.