Chetankumar Patel Arrested for Impersonating FBI Agent in $32,000 Scam
A call regarding a scammer posing as an FBI agent led to the arrest of a suspect and the discovery of a missing person from Anoka County.
The incident occurred Thursday at a hotel in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, where the missing individual attempted to pay $32,000 to someone they believed was an FBI agent, according to a news release from the Eau Claire Police Department (ECPD).
After transferring the funds, the victim realized they had been scammed and reported the incident, prompting ECPD officers to respond to the scene. While officers were speaking with hotel staff, the suspect entered the lobby and was quickly apprehended, with police recovering the full amount of $32,000.
The suspect has been identified as Chetankumar Patel, 40, who has been charged with felony Theft by False Representation. Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the missing person or details about their disappearance.
This incident marks the second fraud case in the area within a week, and investigations into both cases are ongoing.
The ECPD reminds the public that the FBI will never ask for money over the phone, nor will they request that such communications be kept secret. Citizens are encouraged to take a moment to assess any suspicious situations and to contact local law enforcement if they suspect a scam.
Scammers impersonating government agents frequently target individuals, particularly seniors, often pressuring them into handing over significant sums of money.