Scams targeting the elderly are sadly becoming more common, and one North Texas woman recently fell victim to a sophisticated fraud. Believing she was helping law enforcement, she handed over her entire life savings to criminals posing as a bank employee and an FBI agent.
Now, she is sharing her painful experience to warn others and prevent more families from going through the same heartbreak.
How the Scam Began with a Phone Call
The woman, who does not wish to reveal her name, received a call from a man claiming to be from Chase Bank. He said someone was trying to transfer $6,000 from her account and that he would help her stop it. He kept her on the phone for hours, making his story sound believable.
Withdrawals Directed by Scammer
The caller convinced her to withdraw large amounts of cash to “help the Federal Reserve” track fraud. At first, she withdrew $9,500, giving the scammer access by sharing security codes from her bank. Later, he instructed her to withdraw another $15,500.
Cash Handed to Fake FBI Agent
The scammer told her not to speak with bank staff and guided her to deliver the money to a woman in a nearby parking lot. Believing she was an FBI agent, the victim handed over the box of cash — her family’s life savings. When asked if the woman was really from the FBI, the scammer confirmed it over the phone, tricking her further.
Realisation and Devastation
While preparing to withdraw more, the victim checked her account and saw just $2.98 left. That’s when she realised she had been scammed. She described the moment as devastating, knowing she could never recover financially at her age.
Suspect Arrested in Florida
Police later tracked down 22-year-old Jessica Bahu of Frisco using her car’s license plate. Authorities say she took the stolen money to Florida, where she spent time on a yacht. Bahu was arrested for exploitation of the elderly, a third-degree felony, and booked into the Garland Detention Center on a $100,000 bond before being released.
A Warning for Others
The victim is now urging everyone, especially seniors, to be cautious. She warns never to trust phone calls requesting money or personal details. Legitimate agencies will never ask for cash, gift cards, or wire transfers. She says if her story can save even one person, the pain of sharing it will be worth it.
This heartbreaking case is a strong reminder that scams are becoming more convincing and dangerous. Fraudsters often prey on trust and fear, especially targeting older citizens.
The North Texas woman’s story highlights the importance of staying alert, verifying calls directly with banks or authorities, and never handing over money to strangers. Her courage in speaking up could protect countless families from losing their hard-earned savings.
