FORT PIERCE, Fla. (CBS12) — A widespread car wrap scam promising easy money has resulted in the arrest of a Fort Pierce woman and revealed a multi-state fraud operation.
On August 19, detectives from the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office (SLCSO) Financial Crimes Unit executed a search warrant at a residence near 1900 Jaynell Street. The raid uncovered ties to counterfeit checks and fake money orders, all connected to a deceptive advertising scheme targeting victims across state lines.
Here’s how the scam works: Victims receive unsolicited text messages offering payment to wrap their vehicles in promotional decals. When they respond, they’re sent counterfeit checks and told to deposit the funds, keep a portion as “commission,” and send the rest to a third party—usually posing as a decal installer. By the time banks recognize the checks are fake, victims have already lost real money.
Authorities arrested Aleda Jaynell Caldwell, 63, while she was attempting to pick up a UPS Next Day Air envelope believed to contain a fraudulent money order.
She is facing the following charges:
Organized Scheme to Defraud (over $50,000)
Grand Theft (over $100,000)
Money Laundering
Caldwell also has active warrants in Georgia for similar fraud-related crimes.
The SLCSO is encouraging residents to stay alert and report any suspicious text messages or potential scams.
