San Francisco's streets fell prey to an old con with a spiritual twist as police recently nabbed a 68-year-old man in connection with a series of "blessing scams." According to the San Francisco Police Department, several individuals were swindled out of their valuables under the guise of a mystical ceremony that promised to imbue their possessions with luck and protection.

The scam, which targeted solitary individuals in the Excelsior District and the outer Mission, involved suspects who had conversations with potential victims and lured them into participating in a fake blessing ritual. Under the impression that their items were to be sanctified, the victims found their valuables switched out for worthless trinkets. Through diligent investigation, the SFPD has been following leads and identified multiple suspects associated with the crimes.

On February 26, the SFPD took into custody Chen Kun Lo, a 68-year-old male in Los Angeles, who is believed to be part of the scam. During the arrest, officers recovered items that were likely pilfered from victims of these ruses. Shockingly, the apprehended suspect was also found in possession of child pornography, adding a harrowing layer to the transgressions. "Investigators have identified the other suspects who remain at large at this time," the SFPD shared in the news release.

Lo now faces felony charges, including possession of stolen property and child pornography, with the evidence discovered linking him to the scams that duped unsuspecting San Franciscans. Authorities reminded the public that while an arrest has been made, the investigation still breathes, and anybody with information is encouraged to come forward. Tips can be shared anonymously by calling the SFPD tip line or texting TIP411 beginning the message with SFPD.

The San Francisco Police Department continues the hunt for the remaining culprits and urges anyone who might have information to aid their ongoing inquiries.