A Ukrainian national has been taken into custody after a series of scams targeting elderly women was uncovered in Southern California. This arrest follows an incident in which the suspect attempted to trick an elderly woman in Loma Linda into handing over a significant sum of money under pretenses. San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department named the individual as Tyhran Shvets, a 20-year-old Ukrainian national.
On Tuesday, the suspect allegedly called an elderly woman, deceiving her by impersonating the Inspector General. According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department, the victim was coerced into withdrawing $30,000 from her bank account to settle what she was led to believe was an active arrest warrant. Realizing the fraudulent nature of the phone call, she reported the incident to the authorities. The scam was one in a series that prompted detectives from a Central Station to investigate further.
These efforts bore fruit the next day. "On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, Tyhran Shvets, a 20-year-old Ukrainian national, was arrested when he attempted to collect the $30,000," detailed the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department. The ongoing investigation also brought to light that Shvets had previously succeeded in defrauding other elderly female victims. It was confirmed that he was booked on charges of attempted theft by false pretenses, conspiracy, and elder abuse at Central Detention Center.
Local officials are concerned that there may be additional victims who have yet to come forward. Detective M. Magdaleno's contact information has been made available for those seeking to report further instances of fraud or possessing relevant information about the case. Anonymous tips can be provided at 1-800-78CRIME or through the We-Tip hotline and website, according to KTLA.
