Shocking Fraud Attempt: Three Arrested in Glenmont Credit Union Scam!
Three Fulton County residents have been arrested and charged after an attempted fraud at a credit union in Glenmont.
On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, the Bethlehem Police Department took into custody Hector J. Reyes Jr., 21, of Gloversville; Zionna O. Belknap, 24, of Johnstown; and Melvin D. Witherspoon, 30, also of Johnstown.
They are accused of trying to defraud Sunmark Credit Union using a forged check.
According to the police, around 3:40 pm, Reyes entered Sunmark Credit Union and tried to cash a fraudulent check worth $800.
The alert staff at the credit union noticed something was off with the check. Instead of processing the transaction, they promptly contacted the Bethlehem Police Department. Officers arrived quickly and arrested Reyes without any trouble.
While Reyes was being detained, Belknap and Witherspoon, who were allegedly involved in the scheme, fled the area in a vehicle.
Officers on patrol spotted their car and pulled them over a short distance away. Both were taken into custody without incident. The swift action by the police ensured that all three suspects were apprehended before they could escape.
The charges against the individuals are serious. All three face charges of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument in the Second Degree, which is a Class D Felony, and Conspiracy in the Fifth Degree, a Class A Misdemeanor.
Additionally, Reyes is charged with Attempted Petit Larceny, a Class B Misdemeanor, for his direct involvement in trying to cash the forged check.
They were arraigned in the Town of Bethlehem Court before Honorable Andrew Kirby. Reyes Jr. and Belknap were released without bail, while Witherspoon was sent to the Albany County Correctional Facility without bail. Their next court appearance is scheduled for November 6 in the Town of Bethlehem Court.
This incident highlights the importance of vigilance among financial institutions. The staff at Sunmark Credit Union played a crucial role in preventing the fraud. Their quick thinking not only saved the credit union from potential financial loss but also helped in the swift arrest of the suspects.
“We are grateful for the attentiveness of our staff,” said a representative from Sunmark Credit Union. “Their actions reflect our commitment to protecting our members and the community.”
The Bethlehem Police Department praised the credit union’s staff for their cooperation. “The prompt report from Sunmark Credit Union allowed us to act quickly,” said a police spokesperson. “Community partnerships like this are essential in keeping our neighborhoods safe.”
Residents expressed concern over the attempted fraud but were reassured by the effective response from both the credit union and law enforcement. “It’s unsettling to hear about such activities happening here,” said a Glenmont resident. “But it’s comforting to know that our local businesses and police are vigilant and ready to act.”
Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument in the Second Degree is a significant felony charge in New York State.
If convicted, the individuals could face substantial fines and potential prison time. The conspiracy charge suggests that the three suspects worked together to plan and execute the fraudulent act, which could lead to additional legal consequences.
The case reminds everyone to be cautious and report any suspicious activities. Fraudulent schemes can take many forms, and awareness is key to prevention. Financial institutions are encouraged to train their staff to recognize signs of fraud, such as discrepancies in identification documents or unusual customer behavior.
As the investigation continues, police have not released additional details about where the forged check came from or whether other suspects are involved.
They have also not indicated whether this incident is connected to any other fraudulent activities in the area.
The community will be watching closely as the legal process unfolds. The upcoming court date on November 6 will provide more information on how the case will proceed.
In the meantime, residents are encouraged to stay informed and report any further suspicious activities to the authorities.
This incident underscores the importance of community awareness and cooperation with law enforcement.
Read More:
Shocking Family Tragedy: 13-Year-Old Allegedly Kills Sister Over Toilet Dispute!
Heartbreaking Accident: Capital Region Woman Killed in Horrific I-87 Crash!
It also highlights the effectiveness of quick action and communication between businesses and police in preventing crime and ensuring public safety.