Dodge County phone scam: Man arrested after police officer conducts undercover investigation

DODGE COUNTY, Wisconsin. – A man was arrested in Dodge County after authorities said he attempted to defraud a county resident of more than $81,000.

According to the Dodge County Sheriff's Office, on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, the Sheriff's Office was notified of a phone scam in which the caller attempted to defraud a 61-year-old resident of the City of Lowell.

By reporting immediately, investigators were able to take over communication with the fraudster and pose as the victim.

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The scammer posed as an agent of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and asked the victim to withdraw all the money in cash from the bank.

The scammer claimed this was because his Social Security number and bank accounts were compromised, and claimed the FTC would issue the victim a new Social Security number and bank accounts.

Working undercover

The criminal organization sent a man from the Chicago area to the victim's residence to pick up the money.

The Dodge County Sheriff's Office sent an undercover police officer to conduct the handover to the suspect.

Immediately after the handover, the suspect was arrested.

According to the sheriff's office, this criminal organization attempted to defraud the victim of over $81,000.

First court date

Laxit Devendra Patel, 18, of India, made his initial appearance in Dodge County District Court on Friday, September 20.

He was charged with conspiracy to launder money and conspiracy to commit theft by false representation.

He is currently being held on bail of $500,000.

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Avoid fraud

The Dodge County Sheriff's Office advises that law enforcement will never contact you by phone and demand cash from you to help with things like identity theft, posting bail for a new charge or warrant, paying outstanding citations, or settling parking tickets.

The Sheriff's Office strongly advises you not to withdraw large amounts of cash without knowing exactly where the money is going and without a legitimate reason for transferring those funds.

Learn more about how to avoid scams from the Dodge County Sheriff's Office and the FBI.