OGDENSBURG, NY — Two Chinese nationals accused of scamming an elderly woman out of $50,000 in Ogdensburg are facing multiple felony charges, authorities said.
Police identified the suspects as Chun Yan, 42, of Brooklyn, and Cunjian Chen, 46, of Flushing. Both are Chinese nationals and have been charged with grand larceny, attempted grand larceny and conspiracy, according to a report by WWNY-TV.
Investigators said the men allegedly posed as representatives of the Federal Exchange Commision, telling the woman, who is in her 80s, that she owed money and could face penalties if she did not pay. The victim turned over $50,000 before becoming suspicious when the suspects returned seeking additional funds, police said.
Authorities then coordinated a sting operation, arresting the two men as they attempted to collect more money, according to the report. Multiple agencies, including local and state police, assisted in the investigation.
The suspects were awaiting arraignment as of Thursday, and the case remains under investigation.
Police are urging residents to be cautious of scams involving individuals claiming to represent government agencies, noting that legitimate officials do not request payments through cash or similar methods.
