Scam Alert

Whittier police are warning their community of inheritance scams. The victims are approached in parking lots. The scammer tells them he has to go back to Africa, but can't take his inheritance with him because of crime and fear of hostage taking.

The scammer flashes some money and asks if the victim can recommend a church to which the inheritance can be donated. Often a finder's fee is offered. The scammer then convinces the victim to withdraw money as proof that the scammer can trust the victim. They are told to drive around the block and when they return, the scammer and the money have disappeared.

The scam has been perpetrated in Whitter, La Habra, and Laguna Beach. Victims have been in their 80s.