MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Pa. — Two self-proclaimed psychics, Gina Marie Marks, 53, and Steve Nicklas, 40, were arrested for allegedly defrauding two women out of more than $600,000 by claiming to remove black magic curses, Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele announced.
The scam began in 2022 when a victim sought a phone reading from Jenkintown Psychic Visions, operated by Marks and Nicklas. Marks, who called herself “Naomi,” convinced the woman she was under a powerful curse that threatened her marriage, business, and family unless removed immediately.
Marks then brought in Nicklas, referred to as “Stephan,” who supposedly aided in the curse removal ritual. Between September 2022 and August 2023, the victim sent cash, jewels, gift cards, concert tickets, and luxury items totaling $595,959—allegedly for an altar ritual to “cleanse” the curse. None of these valuables were returned.
Investigators traced tens of thousands of dollars sent through Zelle and CashApp to accounts controlled by Marks and Nicklas. Nicklas’ Navy Federal Credit Union account showed thousands of dollars spent on the betting site FanDuel and $17,000 in ATM withdrawals at Parx Casino.
In December 2024, detectives discovered a second victim who had contacted the psychic business in June 2023. Marks allegedly demanded photos, personal details, and even a Chanel purse to complete rituals, threatening reputational damage if demands were not met. This victim sent $18,000 before the fraud was uncovered.
On October 7, Marks and Nicklas were charged with corrupt organizations, dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities, theft by deception, receiving stolen property, and fortune telling violations. Both were arraigned and released on bail.
Montgomery County DA Steele condemned the scheme, saying, “These defendants preyed on people seeking help, exploiting them for financial gain.”
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 20 before District Judge R. Emmett Madden.
