Tyler Police Warn Public of ‘Spiritual Scam’

TYLER — Tyler Police say they’ve been contacted by two victims of a suspected scam targeting the Hispanic community. According to authorities, each victim contacted a phone number in an advertisement and was then advised by the suspect to go to 500 N. Barron Street to meet with the Healer. The Healer charged $500.00 and $200.00 for each victim to start the spiritual healing process because they were possessed with an evil spirit and their family was in danger. The Hispanic female suspect in her late 50’s to 60’s told the victims to return with very large sums of cash so that she could continue the healing process.

The suspect convinced them that she was not keeping their money but only praying over it. She placed the cash in a bandana in front of them and then had the victim close their eyes to pray over it. She instructed them not open the bandana until the following day. When the victim did so they realized that the cash and been switched with cut paper.

Upon further investigation by investigators it was determined that the suspect was using the rent-house for a front at the time of the incident. It is believed that the suspect may be traveling from city to city pulling this scam. Out of state plates were said to be on vehicles parked in the driveway.

Anyone with information about the suspects involved in this crime are urged to contact the Tyler Police Department, at 903-531-1000, or Crimestoppers at 903-597-CUFF (903-597-2833).