VAN WERT, OH — Andrii Osoba, 29, of Warren, Michigan, was arrested by the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office in connection with an alleged scam targeting an elderly resident, according to a statement from Sheriff Thomas Riggenbach.
Deputies were alerted after a victim received a suspicious call from someone claiming to be a federal agent. The caller instructed the victim to pay a bond, giving detailed directions on the amount, how to package the money, and stating someone would arrive at the victim’s home to collect it.
When deputies responded to the victim’s residence, they found Osoba on the property. He was immediately arrested and charged with theft from the elderly, a third-degree felony.
Osoba is currently being held at the Van Wert County Correctional Facility on a cash bond, as determined by Van Wert Municipal Court. The investigation is ongoing.
Sheriff Riggenbach urged the public to remain vigilant:
“Anyone who receives calls similar to those described above should hang up immediately. Do not share personal information, such as your date of birth or Social Security number.”
He also warned against sharing bank details, credit card numbers, or providing payment in the form of cash or gift cards. Any such attempts should be reported to the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office.
