LIBERTY – Village Police have arrested 39-year-old Zhang Jinhao from Queens following an investigation into a reported fraud that occurred on August 1.
A local resident contacted the police, believing they had fallen victim to a scam. Earlier that day, the victim received a call from an individual claiming to be a federal law enforcement officer. The caller threatened the resident with arrest unless they immediately withdrew $20,000 from their bank account and delivered it to another individual posing as a federal officer at a public parking lot.
Fearing for their safety, the resident complied and delivered the $20,000 to Zhang Jinhao, who was later located by Liberty police officers in Flushing.
Jinhao was brought back to Sullivan County, where he faces felony grand larceny charges. Under state bail reform legislation, he was released on his own recognizance and is scheduled to appear in town court at a later date.
“Crimes like these are not only financially devastating but also emotionally distressing for the victims,” said Police Chief Steven D’Agata. He emphasized that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never request funds to be withdrawn and handed over to an officer or agent. Residents are advised to hang up immediately if they receive such calls and to report them to the authorities.