PONTIAC, Mich. (FOX 2) — A 49-year-old man from Warren has been arrested for defrauding a senior citizen in Waterford out of more than $40,000, according to the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office.
Mohammad Gazi faces multiple felony charges after allegedly impersonating a McAfee Computer Security employee. Prosecutor Karen McDonald stated that Gazi called the victim, claiming money had been mistakenly deposited into her account. He then instructed her—on three separate occasions—to withdraw the funds and hand them over.
In total, the elderly victim gave Gazi $40,000. Suspicion arose during a fourth call, prompting the woman to contact police. Gazi was subsequently arrested during a sting operation.
“Scammers attempt to exploit people’s trust and goodwill, especially seniors,” said McDonald. She urged the public to be wary of unsolicited or suspicious calls and to never provide personal information without verification.
Gazi is now charged with one count of false pretenses, two counts of using a computer to commit a crime, and one count of attempted false pretense. If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in prison and possible fines.
