Roanoke, Virginia – A fraudulent scheme is currently unfolding locally, as the Roanoke County Police Department alerts residents to illicit activities carried out by ‘foreign nationals’.
The police have provided a photograph as evidence, taken at the junction of Williamson and Plantation Road. The image, according to Commander Ray Torres, showcases a foreign individual exploiting local inhabitants.
“We think it’s important for them to be aware that they’re targeting our citizens using emotional means,” stated Torres, indicating the strategic maneuvers adopted by these fraudsters.
Commander Torres disclosed that they are probing into two ‘foreign national’ groups active in the valley. The Roanoke County Police Department identified these factions as originating from Eastern Europe and South America, respectively.
“One group was basically just soliciting people on the side of the road for money – when they do that, they can get thousands of dollars and they will send that money back overseas,” Torres explained, highlighting the methods used by the first group.
The second group, as per police reports, is involved in automobile break-ins. “Larcenies from people, credit card fraud; then they would go purchase products from multi-large national corporations and then sell that product or send that product back overseas as well,” Torres further added.
Residents are urged to be vigilant, immediately report any suspicious activities to 911, and maintain car safety. Never leave any items in your car that could be a potential target for theft, and always secure the vehicle.
“If you want to go hiking, want to go to the gym or something like that and you know you’re going there, just take the minimum that you need to, like an ID card and a credit card with you, and take it with you,” advised Torres. “Don’t leave anything in your car. So, if someone does get in your vehicle there’s nothing for them to take.”
The police announced that local charges will be pursued and collaboration with ICE is underway for potential federal charges.
