Detectives from the Fairfax County Police Department’s Financial Crimes Unit have charged a New York resident in connection with a $40,000 scam that targeted a community member in Kings Park West.
According to police, on September 13, a victim reported being defrauded of $40,000 by a man who claimed to be a representative of the victim’s bank. The suspect allegedly convinced the victim to withdraw money on two separate occasions and deliver it in person.
The Financial Crimes Unit identified the suspect as Kun Ye, 37, of New York. With assistance from the Fugitive Tracking and Apprehension Unit, officers located Ye in the 3900 block of Fair Ridge Drive in Fair Oaks, where he was taken into custody. Ye was transported to the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center and charged with felony obtaining money by false pretenses. He is being held without bond.
“Scammers are often very persuasive, using pressure and false authority to convince you to act quickly. Stay alert and never share personal info, verify callers, and never hand over money to strangers,” police stated.
Authorities advise residents to avoid giving personal information over the phone, verify the identity of anyone claiming to be from a bank by calling the official number, and never rush into financial decisions. They also caution against wiring or transferring money to strangers and warn that legitimate banks will not ask for such actions. Meeting with strangers to hand over money is described as a likely sign of a scam.
Anyone with information about this incident or who believes they may have been a victim is encouraged to contact the Financial Crimes Unit at 703-246-3533. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers by phone at 1-866-411-TIPS (866-411-8477), via the web, or through the ‘P3 Tips’ app. Anonymous tipsters may be eligible for cash rewards.
Residents are also encouraged to register their cameras with Connect Fairfax County to assist police in solving crimes and supporting investigations.
For updates, police recommend reading their blog and following them on X, Facebook, and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.
