LINCOLN COUNTY, Ore. — Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies have arrested a California man in connection with a large-scale financial scam that defrauded an 81-year-old local woman of $284,000.
According to investigators, the victim was contacted in September by someone posing as an FBI agent who claimed her savings were at risk. The scammer instructed her to convert her money into gold and surrender it “for safekeeping.” This scheme mirrors a nationwide pattern of similar scams targeting seniors.
Federal agents traced the operation to a suspect in India, who coordinated directly with victims and sent couriers to collect the gold. Two couriers tied to this network were recently arrested in the Kansas City area.
On September 24, 2025, law enforcement from multiple agencies conducted a coordinated operation in Toledo, Oregon. Around 7 p.m., a suspect arrived at the planned meeting site, performed counter-surveillance, and was later stopped by deputies.
The vehicle was identified as an Uber, whose driver was unaware of the fraudulent activity and cooperated fully with investigators. The passenger, 20-year-old Tejveer Kumar of San Bernardino, California, was arrested and charged with Attempted Aggravated Theft and Conspiracy. He was booked into the Lincoln County Jail.
The investigation involved assistance from the FBI and the Newport, Lincoln City, and Toledo Police Departments.
“This case underscores the importance of public awareness around financial scams,” the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office said. “Always verify with legitimate agencies before sharing personal details or transferring money.”
