Scam artists at work again in city of T.O.

Scam artists at work again in city of T.O.

A new scam has Thousand Oaks police on the alert trying to prevent further unsuspecting victims from falling prey to it.

Several local residents have reported the same type of crime over the past several weeks. The victim advertises an item for sale in a publication and is contacted by phone or e-mail by the suspect, who offers to buy the item. The item is purchased using a fake but realistic-looking U.S. Postal Service money order made out for more than the cost of the item. The suspect requests a refund of the difference.

"The suspects make a presentation that is very professional and make it seem justifiable to do business this way," said Sgt. Jerry Weaver of the Thousand Oaks Police Department.

It takes three to five days for a bank to clear a money order, enough time for suspects to cash refund checks.

Similar crimes have taken place in the San Fernando Valley in recent weeks, added Weaver. He believes the suspects are a widespread, very organized group that may be from out of the area and even out of the country, making it difficult for law enforcement to make arrests. By informing the public, police hope to prevent further fraud.

"Our best way to deal with this is through education," Weaver said.

Crime Stoppers is offering a reward for information leading to arrests of these scam artists. Call Crime Stoppers at (805) 494-TALK or Weaver at (805) 494-8218.

––Sophia Fischer