Cape Girardeau police warn public after resident loses more than $150,000 in phone scam

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) – The Cape Girardeau Police Department is warning residents to remain vigilant after a victim lost more than $150,000 to a phone scam involving someone posing as a federal agency representative.

According to Patrolman Bobby Newton, the victim reported the incident June 23 after receiving multiple phone calls from someone claiming to work for the Federal Trade Commission.

Investigators said the suspect convinced the victim to complete wire transfers totaling more than $150,000 over the course of three separate transactions. The suspect allegedly told the victim the money needed to be transferred as a security measure and promised the funds would be returned by cashier’s check delivered through the local police department once they were verified.

The investigation remains active, and no arrests have been made.

Newton said scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often impersonating family members, government agencies, businesses or financial institutions to gain victims’ trust.

Authorities urge residents to be cautious of anyone requesting money over the phone, especially through wire transfers. Before sending money or sharing personal or financial information, people should verify the caller’s identity by contacting the organization directly using a trusted phone number.

Police also remind the public to stop and verify the situation before taking action if something feels suspicious.