RIVERSIDE COUNTY, Calif. – A 66-year-old man from Los Angeles, Vincent Tarter, was arrested on February 26 for allegedly scamming an elderly victim by posing as a private investigator. According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, Tarter met the Palm Desert resident in June 2024 and claimed to be a former federal agent currently working as a private investigator.
Tarter promised the victim that he could resolve their legal issues for a significant fee. However, the victim later claimed that no services were provided and Tarter simply took the money without delivering on his promises.
In December 2024, investigators uncovered that Tarter was reportedly working alongside a second suspect, 55-year-old Tamela King from Glendale, in the fraudulent scheme. Authorities believe there may be additional victims connected to Tarter and King.
Tarter was located in Los Angeles on the 100 block of North Broadway, where he was arrested for financial elder abuse and is being held without bail. Authorities also revealed that Tarter is known to use multiple aliases, including Tony Costa and Anthony Costa.
Further charges will be pursued regarding King’s involvement in the scheme. The investigation remains ongoing.
