An elderly Georgia woman lost $63,000 to criminals impersonating federal agents in an extortion scheme that kept her under constant phone surveillance until police tracked her down and stopped the theft in progress.

Missing-Person Call Reveals Active Theft

Perry police discovered the victim during a missing-person investigation launched on September 21. Working alongside Bibb County deputies, investigators determined the woman had been targeted by scammers pretending to be federal, court, and law enforcement officials. The criminals threatened her with arrest unless she followed their instructions exactly, creating a situation where she believed compliance was mandatory to avoid legal consequences. The victim remained on the phone continuously with the scammers, who demanded she keep everything secret from family and local authorities.

The scheme followed a methodical pattern designed to extract maximum funds while maintaining control over the victim. Scammers instructed her to withdraw cash from her accounts, purchase cryptocurrency, use retail payment barcodes, and physically deliver money to designated individuals. Financial records confirmed she withdrew $63,000 during the operation. Officers used the Flock Safety camera system to track and locate her vehicle, intervening before additional funds could be stolen and recovering some of the money already taken.

Two Macon Residents Face Multiple Charges

Authorities arrested James L. Card, 26, charging him with theft by extortion, elderly exploitation, and impersonation of an officer. Tykeria L. Washington, 31, faces charges of elderly exploitation. Both suspects are Macon residents connected to the scheme through the investigation. Perry Police Department continues working the case and requests anyone with information contact Detective Talley at 478-988-2800. The intervention prevented what could have become an even larger financial loss for the victim.

Warning Signs Every American Should Know

Perry police issued clear guidance to help residents identify similar fraud attempts. Government agencies never tell people to keep payments confidential from family members or local law enforcement. Legitimate courts and government agencies do not demand payment through Bitcoin kiosks, retail-payment barcodes, Apple Cash, gift cards, or cash couriers. These payment methods create untraceable transactions that benefit criminals while making recovery nearly impossible for victims. Anyone receiving this type of communication should immediately end contact, refuse to send money or identification documents, and contact local law enforcement. The scheme represents a growing threat targeting seniors nationwide, exploiting their respect for authority and fear of legal consequences.