NEW ROCHELLE, NY (June 24, 2022) — A Bronx man was lured to New Rochelle earlier today then arrested as he attempted to carry out an extortion scheme against a grandmother told her son was arrested and needed $30,000 to get out jail.
Jose Augustin Maldonado, 51, of the Bronx was arrested by New Rochelle Detectives and charged with Larceny by Extortion.
Maldonado was involved in a scheme where a New Rochelle resident was contacted via telephone and told that her grandson was in custody and injured, and that she needed to get $30,000 cash to secure his release. Multiple calls were made preying on the emotions of the victim for her grandson and some money was given to the suspect.
New Rochelle Police were contacted, and a rouse was set up to have the suspect get the rest of the cash. As the suspect approached the house, New Rochelle Detectives converged on the suspect and he was taken into custody without incident.
Police warned this type of scheme is a common occurrence and residents should take great caution when receiving calls such as these where professional thieves use techniques to prey on the emotions of unsuspecting victims.