An elderly woman lost $3,500 in a sweepstakes scam. The 82 year-old victim told Smithfield Police she received an email indicating she had just won $5.5 million plus a new car.She responded to the email and immediately began receiving telephone calls demanding she pay money upfront to claim the prizes.
The victim agreed to send in $3,500 as requested. After the scammers received the money they called back demanding even more money. The victim became suspicious when they asked for additional money and notified Smithfield Police who told her it was a scam.
Police Chief Keith Powell said officers are investigating the incident.
