EASTVILLE, VA — A small-town police officer in Eastville is at the center of a federal fraud case, accused of defrauding friends and acquaintances out of more than $819,000.
Officer Jerry Keith Brady of the Eastville Police Department was arrested and charged with wire fraud and money laundering, according to a 10-page federal indictment released this week.
Fake Inheritance Scheme
Prosecutors allege that from November 2020 to November 2024, Brady told multiple people that he was expecting a large inheritance or life insurance payout from a deceased relative. However, he claimed he needed loans to cover legal and administrative fees to access the funds.
The indictment states that Brady solicited tens of thousands of dollars from friends and acquaintances—many of whom knew him through his role as a police officer. Despite promises of repayment, he allegedly returned little to none of the borrowed money.
In total, there are 15 unnamed victims, and losses are estimated at $819,000.
Funds Used for Gambling
Instead of legal expenses, federal investigators allege Brady used the funds to fuel a gambling habit, converting victim contributions into personal entertainment and financial losses.
The case has shocked the small community of Eastville, where Brady served in law enforcement.
The indictment includes multiple counts of:
Wire fraud
Money laundering
Brady’s current employment status with the Eastville Police Department has not been publicly confirmed.
