MOUNTAIN HOME, Ark.– Two suspects have been arrested in Baxter County after allegedly targeting elderly residents in a law enforcement impersonation scam.
Josiah Smith, 25, and Briana Norwood, 33, face multiple felony charges, including attempted theft, conspiracy to commit theft, and financial identity fraud. Both are scheduled to appear in court this October.
According to Sheriff John Montgomery, the investigation began after a scammer posing as the sheriff called an elderly resident, falsely claiming that a deputy would arrive to collect money. Deputies set up a controlled delivery operation to catch the suspects in the act.
When Smith arrived to retrieve the money, he was immediately arrested. He told investigators he had been recruited by someone in Alabama and was following instructions after being dropped off by an accomplice.
Shortly after, authorities arrested Norwood in a nearby parking lot, where she allegedly waited in a vehicle. She claimed that Smith had recruited her for the scheme.
Sheriff Montgomery emphasized that impersonation scams are a growing threat, particularly to elderly victims, and encouraged the public to remain cautious and to verify any unusual requests from supposed officials.
