FREDERICK, Md. (May 12, 2021) – Throughout these past few weeks Frederick County Sheriff Office (FCSO) deputies and detectives have responded to multiple calls of fraud in which suspects are providing fraudulent cashier’s checks for private vehicles purchased from victims.
“These cases typically start with the victim listing a vehicle for sale on Facebook. The suspect, falsely identifying himself as ‘Michael Dunham,’ contacts the victim over the phone, typically using phone number 240-270-6662, and sends a friend or family member to look at the vehicle,” said Deputy 1st Class Bryce McGuire, FCSO Criminal Investigation Section detective. “The suspect tells the victim they will purchase the vehicle and sends an ‘assistant’ to complete the transaction, paying with cashier’s checks. The victim will deposit the cashier’s checks into their bank accounts, sign over the title to the suspect, and hand over the keys.
“Days later, the victim’s bank will notify them that the cashier’s checks are fraudulent. The suspect scammed the victim and now has their vehicle, with no monies paid. In the two most recent occurrences of this scam in Frederick County, nearly $95,000 in vehicles have been stolen.”
As a reminder, provided below is a list of things to remember about scams and scam artists:
- Almost all scams have a sense of urgency – if you don’t act now, something bad will happen
- The suspect will typically tell you not to contact the police or family
- Remember, SLOW DOWN, THINK, don’t let them rush you
- Call a trusted family member or the FCSO at 301-600-1046, to tell them what is happening if you think something is suspicious.
There are currently several open cases of this fraud and FCSO detectives are conducting an on-going investigation. If you have experienced this scam or have any information, contact 301-600-1046.
The Frederick County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) is a full-service law enforcement agency; an arm of the court, and a keeper of offenders. In this regard, it exists to serve the more than 250,000 citizens of Frederick County with respect, fairness, and compassion. FCSO is committed to the prevention of crime; the protection of life and property; the preservation of peace and order; the enforcement of laws and ordinances; the safeguarding of constitutional guarantees; and safekeeping of prisoners. The men, women, and officers of this office nurture public trust by holding themselves to the highest standards of performance and ethics. The FCSO is located at 110 Airport Drive East, Frederick, MD, 21701. Visit www.frederickcosheriff.com for more information.
