By: Richard L. Smith
Police are on the search for three male suspects who are wanted in connection with a lottery scam that took place on Wednesday, August 21, outside Citizens Bank at 255 Lafayette Street.
According to Newark Public Safety Director Fritz Fragé, the incident occurred around 4 p.m. when officers responded to a report of theft.
Upon their arrival, a female victim told police that after exiting the bank, she was approached by two men who asked for her financial assistance in claiming their supposed lottery winnings.
Believing their story, the woman withdrew money from her bank account to help the suspects. Following her interaction with the men, additional funds were withdrawn from her account.
The total amount stolen from the victim was $385.
After leaving the bank, the woman quickly returned to report the theft to bank employees, who then contacted the police.
Newark authorities are now urging the public to assist in identifying the suspects.
Director Fragé encourages anyone with information about the crime or the individuals involved to contact the Newark Police Division’s 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477).