MCSO: Arrest made for recent scams targeting the elderly

According to the MCSO, Kino Deandre Roper, 26 was arrested and charged with multiple felonies as a result of a multi-agency investigation. He is currently at the Madison County Jail. He faces three counts of Theft by Deception 1st with bonds of $90,000.

Agencies recovered $166,000 cash in connection with Roper’s arrest. “Kino Roper and his associates have a network of individuals who, through extortion and fraud, induced elderly citizens across north Alabama and surrounding counties to pay thousands to tens of thousands of dollars each to purportedly help their relatives in need of assistance while preying on their concerns for loved ones,” stated a press release from the MCSO.

“Over the last month, Madison County Sheriff’s investigators and other local law enforcement agencies throughout North Alabama began an investigation into several elder abuse scams that affected numerous individuals in our area,” the press release stated.

The investigations revealed calls originating from someone claiming to be a lawyer representing a family member who is in need of money for bail, or legal fees. Authorities said the scammers can be cunning, telling the intended victim that there is a legal gag order in place and not to contact anyone else about the incident. They will request a large sum of money and say they will send someone to your home to pick it up. Oftentimes, they will reach out a second time, claiming the gag order was violated and your family member needs additional funds. These scammers often call using prepaid phones and use couriers or rideshare services to coordinate the pick-up.

In addition to Roper, investigators say they have identified a second subject wanted in connection with these scams, Christopher Roper, 30.

“We take crimes against the elderly serious here in Madison County. These scams have left citizens financially and emotionally devastated and we are committed to investigating, locating, and prosecuting those individuals who take part in such schemes that target and prey on our elderly. I want to personally thank the men and women who worked tirelessly to bring this individual to justice,” Madison County Sheriff Kevin Turner stated.

The Madison County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the FBI Violent Crimes Task Force, Secret Service, Athens Police Department, Morgan County Sheriff’s Office, Huntsville Police Department, Homewood Police Department, and the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office.

Anyone who believes they were a victim of this scam is urged to contact your local agency and report it. These multi-agency investigations continue and more arrests are expected.