KDH police: Elderly local lost almost whole retirement fund to scammer, public’s help sought

The Kill Devil Hills Police Department seeks the public’s assistance in identifying the individual pictured here. (Photo courtesy Kill Devil Hills Police Department)

By staff reports

KILL DEVIL HILLS — An elderly local resident lost almost an entire retirement fund, and the Kill Devil Hills Police Department seeks the public’s assistance in identifying an individual related to the department’s ongoing scam and larceny investigation, a Friday press release announced.

Based on its investigation, the police department believes the suspect may live in the Richmond or Hampton Roads areas of Virginia or in the New York City area, the release said.

The suspect is believed to be in their mid-20s to mid-30s and to be between approximately 5 feet, 4 inches and 5 feet, 6 inches in height, Lt. Julie Haner said in an email.

“The elderly individual, an Outer Banks resident, was scammed over a period of several months; it is believed to have started back in the spring of this year,” Haner said in the email. “Our agency did not get involved until we received a larceny report in late August.”

If anyone recognizes the individual pictured in the photographs shared by the department or has any information related to that person or to the investigation, they should call the Kill Devil Hills Police Department at 252-449-5337 and speak with Det. Michael Sudduth, according to the release.

“Individuals wishing to remain anonymous and possibly receive a cash reward for their information are encouraged to contact the Dare Community Crimeline with any information at 252-473-3111 or 800-745-2746,” the release said.

The Kill Devil Hills Police Department seeks the public’s assistance in identifying the individual pictured here. (Photo courtesy Kill Devil Hills Police Department)

Local law enforcement reminds people to be cautious of “suspicious pop-ups on your

computer” and of links in emails and online, the release added.

“Do not give out your personal information to any person or entity you are not entirely confident about,” it said. “Be vigilant; no legitimate business will ever have you pay utilizing gift cards, gold bars, Bitcoin transfers or other means outside of normal business practices.”

Contact law enforcement with any questions or when encountering any suspicious situations like this, the release said. Businesses should also remain cautious if people attempt to buy “a significant number and/or amount of gift cards, especially if they appear nervous or are on the phone being told to do so.”