El Paso County, Colorado — A 27-year-old man has been arrested for his role in a large-scale government impersonation scam that cost an El Paso County resident more than $200,000.
According to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, on September 29, 2025, a victim reported that she had been defrauded by individuals posing as federal government agents. The scammers convinced her she was under investigation and instructed her to withdraw a large amount of cash. On September 11, a man arrived at her home and collected the money in person.
Following an extensive investigation, detectives identified the suspect as Harish Vadla, who has been connected to multiple similar scams across the United States targeting elderly victims. Working alongside the Orange County Sheriff’s Office in Florida, investigators located and arrested Vadla. A small portion of the stolen funds was recovered at the time of his arrest.
Vadla, a foreign national from India residing in the U.S. on a visa, is now in custody awaiting extradition to Colorado. He faces multiple felony charges, including At-Risk Robbery, Money Laundering, and Conspiracy to Commit Theft.
Authorities warn that these scams often begin with a phone call from someone claiming to represent a government agency. The caller convinces victims they are under investigation, then gains access to their computer via email links or fake websites. Victims are often told to withdraw cash or gold, which a supposed “agent” then collects in person.
The investigation remains active, and detectives believe there may be additional victims. Anyone who suspects they have been targeted is urged to contact the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at (719) 520-7777.
