Two California residents are behind bars after authorities say they attempted to collect a large quantity of gold from a victim in Payson as part of an alleged scam.
The Payson Police Department arrested 20-year-old Harshdeep Singh and 18-year-old Katrina Gonzales, both of Fresno, on charges of fraudulent schemes.
Investigators say the scam began sometime in 2025 when individuals posing as government representatives contacted a Payson resident, claiming her identity had been stolen. The scammers allegedly instructed the woman to purchase gold and hand it over to their so-called “agents” to safeguard her assets during an identity theft investigation.
In January, couriers — sometimes referred to as “money mules” — reportedly collected gold from the victim. Authorities say once assets are obtained in these schemes, they are often shipped overseas or laundered.
After growing suspicious, the victim contacted law enforcement. Officers then coordinated a second, controlled exchange. On Feb. 12, Singh and Gonzales were arrested when they arrived in Payson to retrieve additional gold.
Police believe the pair knew they were participating in criminal activity but said there is no evidence linking them to the original scam calls or the January pickup.
The department emphasized that legitimate government agencies will never demand payment in gold, cryptocurrency, or gift cards. Residents who are uncertain about suspicious calls are encouraged to contact local law enforcement or the agency the caller claims to represent.
