CULPEPER COUNTY, Va. — Detectives with the Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) arrested a Maryland man after uncovering an elaborate fraud scheme that targeted an elderly victim.
On September 14, 2025, detectives were alerted to a possible scam involving an 80-year-old county resident.
Investigators learned that over the course of several days, suspects posing as U.S. Treasury agents had extorted more than $26,000 in cash from the victim, threatening her with criminal charges if she did not comply.
Working quickly, detectives arranged a controlled operation in which one of the suspects arrived to collect an additional $10,000.
He was taken into custody without incident.
The suspect was identified as James Smith of Gaithersburg, Maryland.
Investigators determined the scheme involved collecting large sums of cash from elderly victims and then funneling the money overseas.
Smith, 30, has been charged with money laundering, conspiracy to commit a felony, and obtaining money by false pretenses.
Authorities warn residents that scams like these are increasingly sophisticated and often target vulnerable populations.
Any resident contacted by unknown people demanding money, should call the CCSO immediately.
Smith is being held without bond.
“What kind of person does this to the elderly, sometimes taking their entire life savings?” Sheriff T.W. Chilton asked, rhetorically.
“We get these types of calls daily with usually no leads,” he continued. “Thankfully this clown wasn’t that resourceful and he can stare out the bars until court.”
