A Largo woman is accused of helping some fake police officers scam a disabled man out of thousands of dollars over the past month, according to an arrest affidavit.
- Disabled man scammed out of thousands of dollars
- Carissa Monroe, 30, charged
- Accused of scam involving fake officers
“We really don’t like when people are using our name to try and perpetrate this stuff,” said Largo Police Lt. Paul Amadeo.
According to the report, the victim began receiving phone calls on July 30, from a male and female who stated they were Largo Police officers. Police said the “officers” told the victim that he owed fines and if he didn’t pay, he would be sent to prison. The victim was then informed to give the money to his friend, Carissa Monroe, 30, who would text the “officers” stating that he paid the fines, according to the affidavit.
Police said the victim made 14 withdrawals from his bank account and gave Monroe a total of $9,305. The victim was instructed not tell anyone about the fines. The scam was busted when the “officers” demanded another payment and the victim told his father he no longer had any money in his accounts.
On Tuesday, Monroe was arrested for exploitation of a disabled adult and violation of probation for grand theft.
Monroe’s roommate, Josh Reed, 24, showed up for her first appearance before a Pinellas judge. Reed said he believes Monroe is not guilty.
“Innocent the whole way,” he said. “There’s somehow a false statement that got prosecuted.”
Lt. Amadeo said Largo Police would never show up at someone’s home to collect money for fines or use the telephone that way.
“We certainly wouldn’t call anybody and tell them that they’re paying a fine. We don’t do it, the IRS doesn’t do it,” he said. “If somebody’s calling you over the phone and asking for money, it’s more than likely a scam. In fact, it’s just a scam.”