COBB COUNTY, Ga. — Cobb County police have arrested a 17-year-old accused of stealing thousands of dollars from drivers by pretending to collect donations for a school basketball team at a busy East Cobb intersection.
Investigators identified the suspect as Antrez Jenkins, who allegedly approached vehicles at the intersection of Johnson Ferry Road and Lower Roswell Road, asking for $1 donations. Police said when drivers opened mobile payment apps to contribute, Jenkins would take their phones and transfer significantly larger sums before handing them back.
Authorities said a similar incident was reported at the same location the previous day, when another victim lost $2,000. Police believe additional victims may exist but have not yet contacted law enforcement.
“If anyone feels they’ve been victimized or scammed by a panhandler or someone soliciting money, they should report it immediately,” said Sgt. Eric Smith of the Cobb County Police Department.
Police also reminded the public that roadside solicitation is illegal in Georgia. State law prohibits individuals from approaching vehicles in the roadway to ask for money or rides.
One victim, Brenda Laskey, said she encountered Jenkins on Christmas Day while stopped at a red light. Believing she was donating to a legitimate cause, she opened Venmo on her phone. She said Jenkins began manipulating her device, prompting her to demand it back.
After returning home, Laskey discovered $2,000 had been transferred from her account. She quickly removed her bank information and changed her passwords, but later learned her account had been overdrawn.
Laskey contacted 911, and responding officers found Jenkins still at the intersection and arrested him. He now faces charges of robbery and theft by deception.
Laskey said she hopes her experience serves as a warning to others. Police advise residents to verify charitable organizations before donating and to avoid giving money to individuals soliciting funds in traffic.
