Three Immigrants Scammed by Fake Immigration Lawyer
The Salina Police Department is investigating a scam that targeted three Hispanic immigrants who were deceived by individuals posing as immigration lawyers. The victims — a 34-year-old male and two 49-year-old females, all from Mexico — reported that the scammers contacted them by email and phone beginning in January and continuing throughout the year.
The suspects requested money for supposed immigration assistance, directing the victims to send funds through payment apps such as Zelle. Two of the victims each lost $2,180, while the third victim was defrauded of $55,550.
Police say the scammers used immediate transaction methods to quickly disperse and conceal the funds, making recovery difficult. Authorities urge the public to be cautious of unsolicited offers for legal or immigration services and to verify the legitimacy of any organization before sending money or personal information.