An El Monte man has been arrested for defrauding an elderly Redlands resident through a scheme in which he impersonated an FBI agent. Quan Lin, 53, is accused of first swindling $25,000 from a 73-year-old man and then attempting to secure an additional $35,000 from the same victim the following day. He was arrested as he showed up at the victim’s residence to collect the second payment, thanks to the Redlands Police Department's swift intervention.
The scam started on Monday when the unsuspecting victim received a call from Lin claiming he would be arrested for having child pornography on his computer unless the cash was handed over, according to KTLA. Fearful of the repercussions, the victim withdrew $25,000 and waited for a supposed courier to collect the money from his home. The following day, Lin reportedly escalated his threats, asserting that the FBI had additional warrants for the victim’s arrest, prompting a second demand for $35,000.
However, the second call raised suspicions and led the victim to contact the police. Redlands detectives and their Community Engagement Team collaborated with the victim to set up the arrest of Lin, NBC Los Angeles reported. Lin is now in custody at the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino, facing charges that include elder fraud, grand theft, and theft by false pretenses, his bail is set at $250,000.
The Redlands Police Department has discovered that Lin may be involved in similar schemes in other communities and is actively continuing their investigation, seeking any additional information from the public. According to the department's Facebook post, “millions of elderly Americans are victims every year of financial fraud.” The authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and cautious of any unsolicited requests for money, gift cards, or other valuables, reiterating that “law enforcement officers will NEVER demand payment to avoid arrest.”
Anyone who might have information about the case or similar crimes is encouraged to contact Detective Eric Strobaugh at (909) 798-7659 or via email at [email protected].
