Did he just get let go? >> Yeah. I mean, if he's obviously involved, why are you covering for him? Cuz now you're upset he got let go. >> Look, dude, it sounds like to me you're a good kid that got wrapped up with this guy. >> I've known him for a long time. The stuff that I could tell you, it'll probably make five movies. >> Suspects will do anything to hide their involvement in a crime. But what happens when the cops show up and they realize that their best friends ratted them out to the guys in uniform? >> She did it. She did it. I didn't do it. >> I did this. You did it. >> Did you guys get her? >> Do nothing. I didn't do nothing. I didn't do nothing. >> You guys have a history of stealing and you guys come in together and she decides to steal. It's called being complicit, right? Here are heartbreaking moments when suspects realize their best friend already told the cops everything. Starting with the woman [music] who wanted to mislead police with a fake name, but ended up turning in her own wanted friend. >> She's giving us fake information, though. >> I didn't know what to do. She has a DUI and a warrant and I don't. >> Okay. So, why would you give her name? >> You have the warrant right now. You can call your lawyers or bondsman, whatever. >> On July the 7th, 2024, police received a call from a hotel manager reporting suspicious individuals on the property. When the officers arrived, they began questioning the suspects, completely unaware that they were stepping into a storm of deception that would soon unravel into a betrayal sharp enough to cut through even the strongest of friendships. What's going on? Are you guys staying here or 231? >> Y'all are in room 231. So, if we ask the manager, they say, "You stay in here?" >> Is that your name? >> Mhm. >> Okay. Do you have your ID on you? >> It's upstairs. >> It's upstairs in the room. >> We're just asking cuz one of the employees said you guys weren't staying here. But if you're staying here, then it's no big deal. So, we'll just double check that and then you guys are good to go. >> How long you guys been sitting outside for? >> About 10 minutes. >> 10 minutes. >> What's your last name? And what's your date of birth? >> Can I just go to my room cuz you're questioning too much. >> Questioning too much. >> Well, no. You got to stay right here cuz we got to figure out you're supposed to be staying. >> I gave you my name and everything. I go to my room. >> Okay. Well, >> it's 11:09. >> I know. >> Why would an employee call and say that you weren't staying here? >> People were yelling in there and I came out to smoke. >> Okay. And that's fine. And I don't like as long as we double check with the employee that your name is on that room, then we'll get you out of here in just a second. >> Okay. >> What's your birthday? >> I would not like to give you that information. I just want to go back to my room. >> Okay. All right. At first, the officers had taken the call to be nothing more than a simple misunderstanding. Perhaps an oversight on the part of the hotel's management. But with each evasive response from the young lady, it became increasingly clear that there might be something suspicious about the suspect and her friend after all. >> Are you staying here, too? >> No. >> I know. I'm just asking questions. >> Can I go to my room? >> No, not yet. We got to figure out if you're staying in a room or not. So, we got called out here. >> I'm staying because somebody was yelling in the hallway. >> No, no, we didn't get called anyone yelling in the hallway. We got called by the manager cuz they didn't think y'all were staying here. He saw you on the camera sitting out here and they didn't think you were staying here. That's why they called us to come out here. So, our job is to investigate. >> Was in the hallway just a moment ago coming out here to smoke. Some people were yelling. >> I got you. >> So, I thought maybe it was just late smokey night and somebody was yelling causing me. >> They didn't think you were staying here, so they wanted y'all to leave. But if you're staying here, we can't. Obviously, you're allowed to be here. >> Okay. >> We're just doing our job. I'm not trying I'm not trying to get you guys in trouble or anything. It's just doing my job. Have you ever been in trouble with law before? >> Should we just go like >> No, not yet. I mean, we're about to find out. >> You said no. Not yet. >> What? >> You said no. Not yet. >> No, you can't leave yet. >> No, >> we both can't. >> I thought you were saying no, not yet to me. >> He can't leave. >> No, no, no, no, no. I'm saying no, y'all can't leave yet. I don't know anything about the in trouble with law. We just asked that question. We have to run you guys through our dispatch anyway. So, we'll find out like in trouble. Like, pull it over. >> I mean, traffic stops will show up. Anything. I just I just always ask that question cuz people are honest with us. I'm honest with them. So, >> can I just go to my room? >> You can as soon as they verify it. >> Okay. As soon as >> you know my room. >> I know. As soon as they verify it. We can't let you go yet. very chill [snorts] here on a DUI. >> Have you been arrested for DUI? >> No. >> No. What's your date of birth? >> Okay. My friend just and I'm staying with her. My name's >> Fake name. >> I didn't know what to do. You're telling me what room I'm in? T31 and I had >> So, you're just giving us fake information though? >> I didn't know what to do. Dead ass. She has a DUI and a warrant and I don't. >> Okay. So, why would you give her name? Because that's the room number 231 and I'm staying with her. We're staying the night. >> Okay. But I asked you >> why we don't You're not giving your information. >> Because it seemed weird that you're coming up to us. >> We told you you can. We never said you couldn't. >> Yes. You said I wasn't trespassing. So I was going to tell my friend 231. We can go up there. She's up there. >> We told you >> I don't have a DUI or a warrant. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Is that why you didn't Is that why you didn't give the date of birth? Cuz you didn't know her date of birth. >> I do know her date of birth because it's not my date of birth to say. So, I just said her name and hering room number. I should have said my name, >> you know, telling like lying who >> I wasn't trying to lie. I was just trying to say that. Okay. >> I know. When we ask you your name, lying. So, lying about who you are and using someone else's No, I know. But using someone else's >> using someone else's information is against the law. >> I felt very pressured. I've never been approached by the police before. What do you expect me to say? >> If I say, "What's your name?" Give us your name. >> I know what's going on. It's just like, what am I supposed to say under the scarcity of >> But you knew she had a warrant, too? No, you asked. >> I know, but you just said she's gotten a DUI and she has a warrant. >> As officers moved in to arrest her for providing false information, they couldn't quite make sense of her motive. They began to wonder why she would give her friend's name, knowing it would inevitably be checked. Was she really trying to help them catch a felon, or was it a calculated move to move attention away from herself and onto her unsuspecting friend? >> Look at that, but just go ahead and turn around. We're going to put you in real quick. >> Y we'll look at the paper in just a second. But you have a active felony warrant right now. >> Yeah, but I I presented it to my attorney and I presented it which is my balls bondament. >> So it should have to be going to this. >> You haven't talked to the court or anything about it? >> My attorney should have presented it to them. >> Okay. Well, it's a warrant that's under your name and it's your responsibility to contact them. So if that didn't >> Yeah, I did though. >> Okay. Well, you can call that. >> This is once you get to the county jail though, but it's been confirmed. So you have the warrant right now. You can call your lawyers or bondsman whatever once you get there. Wait chill chill chill chill. Hey there. What's your name? >> Oaken. Wait, man. Just chill. Just chill. >> I have an attorney. >> I get it. Wait. >> I'm not doing anything wrong. >> Okay. Just chill. You're >> anything you want from the room like wallet? >> Yes. >> Can you grab that phone? >> Yeah. Can I come in with God? >> Is that her phone? >> Yeah. No, this is >> Can I come IN WITH WHAT DID WHAT AM I DOING? >> I'm in my hotel room. >> No, I just asked if it was hers. >> I'm in my hotel room. >> Where's my Where's my phone? >> Okay. I can I can You can step in there. >> Give it to me, [laughter] please. >> D, >> please. >> Here. I'll take her phone. >> Okay. We got Hey, I ain't going to lie, buddy. We got to put on We have a charger. >> My purse, too. My purse, too. >> My phone. My purse. >> No. No. Stop. Chill, bro. Just Just breathe. Don't think and trust, bro. Where's my purse? Where's my purse? >> We're going to find it, too. >> Is it Is it Would it be in any of these bags right here? >> Huh? >> Would it be in any of these bags? >> What are we looking? >> Your purse. >> Your purse. Okay, let's bring these both out here. >> No, we can't take both those. Unzip them. Unzip the bag. >> The county jail doesn't take >> will not take backpacks. >> Okay. So, what's going on? What are we doing? >> We have >> Okay. So, who called the cops? >> Manager. >> And then your friend. >> Uh, the white the white one with the like 80s white girl haircut. >> Correct. >> I'm suspect. >> I'm not searching it, but >> brother. I'm good. I'm good. >> You're doing your job. >> I am. >> If you got a search, do it. Do it. Hey, if you don't breathe, >> inhale. >> I'm not doing anything. I'm not doing anything. >> Okay. Inhale. Exhale. Just shoot. >> Hey, we'll just take your phone and you can >> Yeah, you can keep her purse. >> No, you don't have my purse cuz it's not on. I have my purse. I can show you guys like you're not Okay, let's go. >> Let them Where is your purse? It's a great purse. I promise. I have a I'm on board. I promise. I understand that. I I don't want to go to jail. >> You're going to jail. You're already going to jail. >> Please. >> You're already under arrest. >> No, I find your person 10 SECONDS. I HAVE AN ATTORNEY. >> Find your Find your 10 seconds or we're leaving. >> I'm not playing with you. Where's my >> All right, let's go. Say it. No. >> Can I look? >> No. We're done. >> That's my English. >> Just stop crying. Say it. What are you looking for? That's important. We're going to take what's just take care of her belongings. >> I will see you, bro. >> I'm not I'm telling you. >> This is my hotel room. >> Yes. Tell me. >> This my hotel room. I pay for it. >> I pay FOR THE HOTEL. YES, I DO. I DO. I need him to leave. >> Okay, sir. I really I'm saying tell me you're important. >> I need him to leave. He has no permission. >> I'm saying tell me. Listen, >> I paid for this hotel. >> Quit. Hey, hey, hey. >> I paid for this hotel. >> Shut up. >> What are you saying? >> I'm saying QUIT BEING AN ENEMY. >> YEAH, I keep it down. >> I don't know what your taste is. Hey, listen. >> What? >> In that moment, the young woman realized how naive she had been to believe that they were truly friends. Both of her best friends had turned on her without warning, and it now seemed like the male friend had orchestrated the whole thing to take over her room. But she wasn't about to let that happen. >> I'm saying >> there Let me know what you need out of here. That's important. What's important? >> I need to get the out of my hotel room. >> You get your stuff. Get your stuff and you have to leave. >> That's my bag. That's my bag. He's taking my bag. >> Giving it. Shut the up. >> That's my bag. >> Hey. Hey. Uh, >> please stop. Her stuff can stay in the room. >> Okay, grab your stuff. >> Her purse in a drawer, apparently. >> Yes. And those are all of my bags. So, >> you're going to stay right here. >> He has my stuff. >> Is that her p? Is that her laptop? >> Is that my >> That's my laptop. Leave. >> Okay. >> And my >> And my coach purse. >> And my pink headphones. >> Divo. Yeah, those >> leave is mine and that that bag is mine. >> That's mine. >> Get confiscated. >> Okay. I just didn't want your to get lost, bro. >> Okay. Leave all of her stuff where the room key is going. >> I'm trying to be a good [ __ ] I didn't want them. >> I don't want problems. >> I didn't want your [ __ ] vanished, bro. Think I'm on some weird. >> Grab your stuff and let's go. >> All right. My bad, boss. I'm so sorry, y'all. >> What? Does he have stuff in here? >> Yeah. No. He does. >> Okay, come on. Let's go. Hey, if you have anything else, she'll give it to you. >> Just leave the alcohol. It doesn't matter. >> You're not take I wouldn't take that with you out there. >> Cannot sit in my car and wait till >> No, that's a really bad idea. >> Then you'll end up with a warrant like her. >> Okay. Okay. >> I would leave the alcohol shot and not leave my car. >> Put the alcohol down. >> Put the alcohol down or you're going to get a DUI if you go sit in your car drunk. >> Dude, drop. All right. Come on. All right. Let me get Let me at least crashes. >> Fair enough. >> All right. >> You need to call someone, too, probably for a ride. >> Don't walk. Yeah, don't walk behind me. You can walk in front of me. >> Oh, go ahead and pass me. >> Hey, hey, whatever you do, don't tase me down the stairs. >> She was charged with failure to appear. Unlike the young woman who was accidentally given up by her best friend, Anne Randall was turned in by her own brother after stealing a phone at a local bar. Were you at Sister Louisa's church bar last night? >> Yep. >> Okay. Uh we had an iPhone go missing from there and it's showing it's hanging here. So you guys were there last night. Your sister was there. So we can't say 100%. >> That's how she did it. >> Okay. I do see a fire. Luckily, her brother turned around. >> On September the 15th, 2023, officers received a call from a woman reporting that her phone had been stolen at a club. The officers quickly used mobile tracking technology to trace the device and pinpoint a certain location. I I thought it looked vacant. >> I know. I heard him. I'm checking it. Hey, so here's here's why we're here. Last night they were at a bar and one of their phones got stolen. >> Okay. >> And they suspect somebody took it out of their pocket. They said it's like a gay couple, a black male and a white male. >> Be right down here on the right. >> Might have a better location. >> That That's the problem with these pings. I do this all the time. It's never >> accurate completely. >> Super accurate. That's why. But he It's a black male and a white male. >> Is there a black woman that hangs out with him with dread? >> Oh my god. >> 69. I'm relocating the number 13. >> The suspects who match the description are, I'm told, live at that location. Hello. Hello. Police come to the door. Come to the door, police. >> Hey, how are you? >> Good. >> I'm Detective Franco. Were you at Sister Louisa's church bar last night? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Uh, we had an iPhone go missing from there and it's showing it's pinging here. >> I haven't seen you were with him last night, right? At the bar. Church bar. Sister Louise's church bar. >> Yes. >> We had a couple of girls there and their iPhone went missing and it's showing it's like over here. >> Was there anybody else with y'all that might have >> his sister >> like she had braids? >> She got she had a wig on. >> Okay. Yeah. >> Is she here? >> See if maybe she picked up a iPhone or something. >> I haven't seen her all day. >> Okay. Huh? I said, "Can they ring it?" Like, >> let me Yeah. Let Let me go see. Your sister's gone, right? >> Does your sister live here, man? >> Temporarily. I mean, she just got >> Is there anywhere else around here she might be? He told me that sounds like something his sister might do cuz she just got out of jail. You make it ping so we can look for it in the house if >> it's on the computer. But it was here like she probably >> I haven't seen her all day. >> It's also so it's not >> Upon hearing this, the officers realized that their only chance to recover the phone without further complications had slipped away. With that option now gone, they had to think on their feet, quickly devising another strategy to recover the phone. Oh, okay. Well, we'll we'll figure something out. So, who is your sister, man? >> And and >> how old is she? You look up that name, there's going to be a whole deck of records. >> Really? And >> yeah, she just got out of >> Oh, where do you think she is? I just want to get these girls her phone back. >> I'm not sure where she at. >> You don't have her phone number? >> Her phone not even on. That's why. >> Oh, her? >> Yep. Yes, sir. >> Is she from Tampa? >> Yes, she's from Tampa, but she done got in trouble in Georgia. >> Um, does she have like a room here? >> Will you see if there's just like a random iPhone? Let me ask him what color it is. What color is it? >> I can show you exactly what the phone is. Itself is blue. It looks like it looks just like this. >> Hey man, it's blue. They're going to go look in a room. White flowers. >> White flowers. >> Yeah. Come in. >> Hey, it's blue with white flowers on the case. >> Y'all think she would have taken it with her? >> We would have been We were She was not invited to them last time taking the iPod, but this makes no sense. >> Well, I mean, the reason we're out here because it's like pinging out here. >> Yeah, I did that. I mean, she had to take it. >> Yeah. I mean, it certainly lends the credibility to, you know, cuz >> you've gone. >> Was there anybody else from out here at this trailer park last night at the bar that you know of? >> No. >> All right. I'm going go see if maybe she sold it to the little machine, but And she just You have no clue how to get a hold of her or anything? I'll leave a card if I have to. Hold on. >> Here's why I want to be a little careful about this. Now >> he's going to piss some. >> All right. >> I said and we told her like she just got out of the jail in Macintosh County and we told her that she had two weeks to figure out something, you know, somewhere else to go because she can't stay here for a week. >> All right. Before we just start like accusing her now, I I want to tell you how this works. I mean, I guess have y'all ever had to track like an iPhone or something? >> Yes, I used to have iPhones. >> So, it's not exact. and it was showing it was kind of further down the road. So, it's not peeing to this exact location, but she mentioned that there was a white male and a a black male that were together and that there was a female with on the maintenance man. It's like that sounds like number 13. So, you guys were there last night. Your sister was there. So, we can't say 100%. >> She did it. >> But not unless there just happened here. Unless there just happens to be another group of people that were >> from Spring Valley or from this past history, which is very, very rare. >> So, that's where we're at. >> Only biracial gay couple here. >> Well, I'm going to go see if she sold a phone. If nothing else, I'll leave my card and uh I want to talk to her cuz you know how it sucks cuz you got all your pictures and the phone. I want this damn phone back. >> But like, does she have friends in Athens or like where would she go? >> I have no clue. >> Are there any in this park? Maybe >> you think she's next door >> like right there? They're friends with her. >> I'll go I'll go knock. >> Go knock. I guess they were asking about it and she was totally denying it. >> Yeah, she was literally like she was really about to like have pants with them last night because they thought, you know, we thought it was just [ __ ] up. We thought we were just being accused for no reason. Like >> do you think she's going to come back? She >> She down there. So she down there right now? >> Yeah. >> At Danielle's [music] house. >> Yeah. Okay. >> You coming now? >> Yeah. You still got Mai. >> Yeah, we still got it. >> Okay. >> All right. See you when you get here. >> All right. >> All right. >> Byebye. >> Bye. >> Where is Danielle? My sister's in my sister's house. Uh, >> you don't know the address? >> Hold on. >> Maybe she don't have it, but like you're saying, you think she probably did? I mean, what are the chances someone else? I I have an address where she's at. What's your number? >> Um, my actual number or like >> No, what's hers? >> 678. >> Before I go over there, I'm going to walk around the vacant house and make sure they didn't just throw it there. >> Okay. >> Hey, Cook. >> It was on the road today. >> I'm going to Oh, so it was moving earlier. >> Yeah. >> Where was it moving towards? >> Um, >> like the other side of town? Yeah. >> Mitchell Bridge, Tennessee. That's where it's at. >> In a surprising turn of events, the young man and his boyfriend led both the police and the victims straight to his sister's location. Siblings are often bound by loyalty, sometimes even standing in the way of the law to protect one another. Yet, in this case, the officers hadn't expected him to be so cooperative, especially given that his sister risked being sent back to jail if the phone was found in her possession. >> Hey, is Ann here? >> Yes. and Randall. >> Hey, can you come talk to me? I'm Detective Franco with the police department. [music] >> Hey, were you at Sister Louisa's church bar last night? >> Who? >> Sister Louisa's Church Bar. Were you there last night? >> Church bar? >> Yeah. >> What is that? >> It's a bar downtown. Were you there with these two? >> With my brother? >> Yeah. You were at a bar, right? >> Where did we go? two churches. And >> so >> there was a cell phone that went missing last night. >> Okay. Okay. The girl. Okay. You have >> Do you have that phone? >> No. >> No. >> I've been there watching video at the bar all day. Where Where is the phone? >> I don't have a phone. I have my phone. >> Where is the phone you took from the bar last night? >> I took a phone from the bar. >> Yes. >> I can look, but I don't. >> Go look. >> Okay. >> You took it cuz I saw you take it. Go see if you can find it. I have it. >> You want to be coming to look with you? >> I guess it's in my house, but I only I only brought my purse here. So, I can look my purse. >> Go find this phone. My purse if it's possible. I can see them. >> It's blue and it's got like yellow flowers on the case. No problem. My second Okay. I do see a phone. >> Is that your ID? >> Yeah, I have ID. >> No. Is Whose IDs are that in there? Are that yours? >> Yeah. >> This? Let me see this. >> Now, it was time to teach the pilfer a lesson that would probably last her two lifetimes. >> What did you just get out of jail for? >> Huh? >> What did you just get out of jail for? >> I had a warrant from 2016. So, what h how did you end up with this phone? >> We were all together last night. >> Yes, but they were they told you they lost the phone and you helped them look for it. >> Yeah. >> And you had it the whole time. >> But >> why did you take this girl's phone? >> I did not take her phone. >> It's in your purse. >> I understand it. >> Stand up. Stand up. Stand up. >> Oh, Lord. >> Stand up. >> Really? >> Yes. Stand up. >> Can I at least put my shoes on? >> Not right now. We'll get you on. >> Damn it. Now. >> There you go. >> Come on. Let me go this. Put your hands behind your back. >> You put it down for 11%. I'm going to get it for you. >> Damn. Really? >> 69 central. >> That's what I'm saying. >> We're going to be in custody with that female in reference to case numbers. >> But if you looked at the camera, you didn't see >> what the >> You helped them look for it last night and it was in your purse the whole time you took their phone, >> sir. I didn't. But I understand how it looks. I don't know how else it looks. >> I just I understand how it looks, but I didn't. >> I didn't. >> Anne was booked in jail for theft by taking and was placed on a 12 month probation. Up next is 37year-old Rees, who quickly turned on his girlfriend, 28-year-old Mala, after they got caught shoplifting at a grocery store. >> She's saying he stole it. She did it. I DIDN'T DO IT. >> I didn't do it. She did it. >> And it started bagging the merchandise. >> Okay. And then she never paid for any of that. Nope. She picked it up, took off her socks, and just walked straight out. >> So, my friend got arrested, too. >> Yeah. >> Dispatch responded to Fred Meyer following a shoplifting incident. They rushed over just in time to catch the suspects, later identified as 37year-old Reyes and his girlfriend, 28-year-old Mala, who were about to flee the scene. >> Hey, you're not free to go. >> You're being automated, of course. Stop. >> You're not free to go. >> I wasn't even in the store, though. I wasn't in the store. I was outside. I told you you're not allowed to be anywhere in their property. >> I didn't know they're not in the store. >> I told you on the camera you're not free. You're not allowed to come back. >> Hi. >> Hi. >> Yeah, you're not free to go. >> Hey, Cam Police Department. You're not free to go. >> I didn't go to the store. >> 36. I'll take a third. >> I didn't go in the store, dude. >> You're not free to go. >> You talked to her. I didn't go in the store, dude. I swear I didn't store. >> You're not free to go. Stop. >> You're not free to go. I'm telling you that you're not free to go. You're under arrest for theft. You're under arrest for theft. >> You're under arrest. >> I'm sorry. I didn't know the story. I thought outside. I was outside. I didn't want to. >> No, you're not. You're You're not free to go. No, you're not. >> Stop. Please. I didn't do anything. >> Hey, we'll take two expedite. >> Hey, you're not free to go. >> Stop. Disgusting. It's for Stop. Can't believe you're under arrest. >> Stop. You're under arrest. >> 36. >> 36 with the mail. Two. YOU'RE UNDER 39 on back with 36 email still northbound. >> COME ON. I DIDN'T do anything. >> I didn't go in the store. >> STOP. >> I didn't do nothing. >> I didn't do nothing. >> I didn't do nothing. >> I didn't do nothing. >> They didn't do anything. >> I DIDN'T DO NOTHING. >> THE ONLY CROWD is being Mexican. >> I DIDN'T DO NOTHING. >> We got one to two. We got a crowd. >> Only in the store, though. I was outside the store. >> Put your feet out. >> I didn't do anything. >> We're under arrest. >> For where? >> For trespassing. >> For trespassing. Go outside the store. >> I was outside the store. Man, I don't know where to go. Please. >> Given how intense the moment was, the officers weren't surprised that both suspects had grown defensive, even going so far as to deny what seemed plainly evident. It was clear that they were trying to shield each other by clinging to their claims of innocence. What the officers didn't anticipate, however, was what the male suspect was about to do next. >> She's she's saying uh he stole it. She did it. I didn't do it. >> I didn't do it. She did it. She did it. I didn't do it. >> I didn't She did it. I didn't do it. She did it. I didn't do it. Please, man. You know I DIDN'T DO IT. YOU >> UNDER ARREST. STOP. >> For what, though? >> For trespassing. >> I didn't do anything. I didn't do anything. Can you please get her? Not me. I didn't do nothing, man. I didn't do nothing. I did nothing. I did nothing wrong. I did nothing wrong. I was outside the store. >> Being a video recorded >> being a video recorded. >> I know, but I didn't do nothing. >> Right now, you're under arrest. >> For what, >> ma'am? IT'S JUST IT'S HIS TIME TO SHINE. >> I GOT THE virus and I'm sick. >> Cool. I got the vaccine, bro. >> Yeah, but I'm sick. I need to go >> vaccine. >> I need to go to the ambulance. >> Okay, cool. We'll work on that. >> My heart hurts now. >> Does it? >> Yes. It hurts. You guys get her. I didn't even do nothing. I didn't do that thing. I'm doing nothing. >> Yeah. Yeah, we're good. >> She lost her blue jacket. >> Okay. Was I in the store? Was I in the store? >> Doesn't matter. Yesterday I told you you're trespassing the entire Fredmire property. >> No, you told me inside of the store. >> Oh, it's all recorded. >> Inside of the store. You told me. >> That's the lovely thing about these body cameras. >> Didn't even get her. She know who did it. >> All right, I'll trade out with because >> Thank you. Hi, I'm Officer Campbell. Camp police. You're being recorded. >> Yeah. So, just relax. Just follow instructions and we'll walk through this. Okay. And I am a I'm an informant. I'm an informant, too. >> Okay. >> Just a moment while we get everything safe. Okay. Just lean. I want you to be cooperative. All right. >> I need to talk to you guys, too. >> Yeah. And we'll we'll sort it all out. >> Find your car right now. >> Right now. >> Okay. So, >> so I'm I'm working on >> Hey, so hang on. >> Okay. Can we find the car? >> Yeah, we'll we'll talk here in a moment. >> Yeah. You hear me down? Hella hard. I turn my heart out. >> What? What hurts? >> My heart hurts. My heart hurts. >> Your heart hurts? >> Yeah. Well, I have I have >> I need to talk to the the detective. >> I need to talk to her right now. >> She has a bag. >> What? >> She has a bag. >> I need to talk to him right now. >> Uh 39. >> I understand what you're saying, but you're going to have to wait through the process. >> Okay. >> So, um I have a deal. Hold on. >> I I'm not saying anything to you till your rights are read, but for now, I want you to have a seat. >> Okay. Watch your knee. After placing the male suspect at the back of the police cruiser, they turned to the store's employees who were about to reveal more shocking details about the incident. >> Somebody's Fred Meyer employees here. >> All of us. >> Oh, okay. So, my officer that was the primary officers involved will just >> Yeah, they'll head back to the LP office and then uh stuff. This is her shirt. >> Okay. >> Um she may have stuff in here too as well. I can go do it in the office >> instead of uh having the convo out here. Then you want to just all meet back at the LP office. >> Thank you, sir. Appreciate it. >> Appreciate it. >> Did we find her shoes? She ran out of >> I don't know where she only find >> he's uh working this afternoon. >> So, he'll be here in a few hours. >> She was walking around with the basket at first. >> Those were in the basket and I was right behind her letting her know, >> hey, you're trespassing. PD's on the way. So you have about like third third 30 seconds to just leave this here and go and then she called me up and said I was follow following her home and then started bagging the merchandise. >> Okay. And then she never paid for any of that. >> No, she picked it up, took off her socks and just walked straight out. And that's when she saw officer. >> Okay. >> With no shoes. She was on the move. >> Charges on. >> That's dam needles everywhere. >> She's used to it. At the police cruiser, one of the officers decided to interrogate the male suspect, but it seemed like that was the opportunity that Reyes had been waiting for to scheme his way out of jail, even if it meant throwing his partner under. >> Do you need to talk to me about anything? >> Yeah. So, the company um asked me to help him uh with something and I gave him a person that had over half a million dollars in the car that and they got that money and then they told him to then they went to his house. say because they took um they took my money out of his house too. And so um they tell me that um you know I can help him more in the future. And so right now um there's this guy down the street right here that has over 50,000 pills in his room that I could set set him up with set you know get him booked right now. You know he has him in his room right now. I know that for a fact. And um he's like a block from here and either you have to send somebody with me or um you know to help you guys out, help myself out, you know, the situation I'm in right now, you know. Um, and I'm with you guys all the way. You know, I can wear something, you know, or some kind of camera or something, you know, he's just down the street right now. >> Gotcha. >> And in this room, he has a bunch of money and a bunch of pills. >> Okay. >> Yeah. He's got like the three different kind of 30 there is out here. >> Yeah. >> And uh so yeah, he's always with a bunch of pills. He's he's got them right now. See him earlier. He got a whole bunch of them still and he >> Okay. Well, let me consider that information and then pass it on to the to the right people. Okay. What are your warrants for? um not preparing to court and stuff like that. But last time I >> not going to court for what? >> For what? >> Um >> the last time I didn't go to court because me and my wife were getting divorced and she told me that the that my court was on the 30th. I s I was watched the camera footage. You were in the store on the scooter >> on that little the motorized scooter. >> I got out. >> What? >> I got out. >> Yeah, cuz you you got told to get out. But you're still inside though, you know. >> Yeah. No, your girlfriend did. >> Yeah. I didn't though. So, the way it works is when you guys are when you guys have a history of stealing and you guys come in together and she decides to steal, it's called being complicit, right? It's the same thing. >> Before long, officers finally found the female suspect who had tried to outrun them just a few blocks away from the grocery store. >> Water. >> Hi. Nice to see you again. >> I'm just thirsty. >> You have done a lot of running. I would imagine you probably are pretty thirsty. >> Can you get that drink right there? >> No, we're not going to. Do you see you don't want you don't want that? >> I don't care at this point. I'm just thirsty. >> Okay, thanks. >> Yeah, I know. I saw him come out of the woods over there across and was like, "Oh, yeah, that's her." And then tried to She ran across and then I was like, >> "So, my friend got arrested, too?" >> Yeah. All right. So, like I told you previously, you're under arrest. >> Okay. >> You have anything on you? >> No. >> Okay. Just put it right there. It's my rig for right now. >> So, like I told you previously, you were under arrest for theft. Just cuz you returned to throw the pro property at me does not mean that it's not still >> the property you are. Set it down. >> All right. Go ahead and have a seat for me. >> It's in my car. >> Okay. Have them in the side. Excuse me. >> Yeah. >> Just a moment. Okay. Just a moment. >> Her boyfriend, then she might >> for sure. I normally have my mask here, so it must have fallen off during my suit, so I probably should go check that. >> Is that good for now? >> I'll take a minute. I'm just going to read you your rights real quick since you are under arrest. Okay. After reading her Miranda writes, the female officer began speaking with Michaela. But contrary to expectations, Michaela had grown calm and was now cooperating with the officers. Whether this change reflected genuine remorse or was simply another calculated attempt to mislead them. Only time would tell. >> So, did you see me tell you to stop and you weren't free to leave? >> Yes. >> And what am I? >> A police officer? >> Yes. So, if I'm giving you a lawful order that you're not free to leave, I'm telling you you are under arrest. What is your obligation? >> To stay and deal with it. >> Okay. So, I'm telling you that you're under arrest for theft and you run away from me. >> So, you resisted my arrest. >> Yeah. Okay. Then you continue to run away from me. I'm a very reasonable person. I was not going to book you into jail. You would have actually not even be cussed right now. Both my partner and I are very reasonable people. We don't book people into jail very often, but if you run from us or you fight with us, we're going to book you into jail. >> Okay. >> I was just scared. >> I understand. But I came up and tried to have a conversation with you. What else is scary? Do I come over here and like get on the ground? You know, I'm not My demeanor is exactly how like I'm talking right now. When when you're running from me, it makes me think that something else is going on or you got warrants or something else. So, you're going to be booked into the Kent jail today for theft and resisting arrest. If you stay there and talk with me and you left the property in the parking lot, you did pass. What all did you take? I saw the box of shoes. I >> just took a few clothes to make an outfit. >> And we've got extra pairs of shoes. If you would have stayed with me, we could have we could have made arrangements to get you some help today. >> I was just hungry and needed some clothes. >> I've We've got food. We've got clothes. We've got everything. What are you addicted to right now? >> Um, right now I'm just like >> You're not in trouble. >> Um, I just smoke 30s. >> 30s? It's dangerous. >> Yeah. >> Is that what you're spending your money on? >> Um, I really haven't had any money. >> Are you smoking other people's? >> Yeah. the other day and I got because somebody thought that I stole their their 30s and I didn't steal their 30s but they still >> Are you working on prosecuting or anything? >> And they wanted to work me because you know they thought that I stole their stuff. >> They didn't. Okay. >> And they've been getting beat up because of that. >> Okay. >> But you're not not working. You're not working for anyone. No. >> Are you posting any ads or anything like that? >> Okay. We're I I say this to everyone, but I I'm very truthful. We're very reasonable people. And you would not be going to jail today if you did not run from me. I probably could have gotten some help for you. And you can still get that. You They can give you resources at for you to get some clothes and food. Um but this can be a very different three. This could be a very different conversation. Just stay there, right? Just stay there. It's not a big thing. >> Okay. >> It's theft. But if you run from me, it makes me think that you've got bigger warrants than a theft, >> right? Okay. All right. Michaela, >> best wishes to you. I hope that you get some help and and kick that fence. That stuff's dangerous. >> All right. Reyes was charged with obstructing, making false statements, trespassing, and resisting arrest, while Mala was charged with shoplifting and resisting arrest. In yet another case where a friendship unravels under pressure, 20-year-old Owen Kirk Patrick ended up exposing an organized Czech forgery scam gang after being used as a fall guy by his friend Makia Robinson. >> What I'm trying to tell you isn't why I'm looking at you in front of you. Don't cover for anybody. I just want to know that I'll be safe if I talk to you. >> Yes, you will be safe. >> I I right now that would tie him to multiple different things with his face on it, but people just can't find him in different cities and states. >> On September the 27th, 2025, police responded to a Wells Fargo after a staff member reported that a young man was attempting to cash a $5,000 US Treasury bond. When officers arrived, they quickly detained the suspect before they started interrogating him. But just as the interrogation started, he dropped a bombshell. >> I think that's the guy. >> Yep. >> Put your hands on the roof of the car. >> Take a seat here for me. >> Yep. I got I got like a really bad knee. Is there anybody kneel? >> I'll help you. >> Could you help me? >> I'll help you. Thank you. >> Why'd you leave your ID in there? >> I'm not going to lie to you. >> Huh? >> I'm not going to lie to you. >> Okay. >> I I I already know. >> Okay. You're detained at the moment and you're free to leave. Okay. You're not free to leave. I I apologize. So, I'm going to read you your right. Do you want to let me know what's going on? Um >> because you said you already know. >> Uh well, I got that in the mail and when I got it in the mail, it said that it was from my grandparents and there was m there was multiple of them. There was a bunch of them and I asked my grandparents if it was from them and they said no. But I called the online like treasury thing and they told me that it was valid and that um it had reached its redemption status that it could be redeemed. And I was like I just think it's I thought it was a little odd that it also had someone's name on it that I never seen before. And I told them that and they said it could have just been someone else on the reissue cuz they broke it down to me. I just don't know all the >> things they told me. But they told me that they were like, "Yeah, if you wanted to go cash that, like all you'd have to go to do is go to like your local branch." I felt funny about it. But I mean, when I called them and they told me that like it was good, I didn't see a reason cuz it it it looks like a savings bond that I've got from my grandma before. So, I don't know. I I knew I I knew something was up with it. I It's I feel dumb now. >> Okay. How many more of these do you have? Uh, I'm not sure. I'm not sure. >> And you just got them from some random person and it said it was your grandparents, but it >> Yeah, it said it said when I got them in the mail, it said it's not my grandparents. >> And you called them and they said no. >> So, you do you live in Jacksonville still? Where you live? >> Palm Coast. >> Okay. So, when you try to cash it at Palm Coast, what' they say? I went to Palm Coast and they just told me that I could I could cash it, but they said that if I wanted to cash it there since it was such a large amount that uh I would I would it would be better off being deposited just so they could record who it was being dispersed to. And then I said, "Do you think if I went to another branch, they could maybe give me cash for it?" And they said, "Um, just call ahead cuz every branch has different amounts of money." And I was like, "Okay, I understand. I I don't >> Okay. >> Is there only one Wells Fargo up in Palm Coast? There's two of them, but uh I I went to one in the morning cuz the after I called and they said that it was uh like legit when I looked on the well I looked on the first it was like a some type of treasury website. And then after that um it was like after that it gave me a phone number to call. And then once I called the phone number >> they basically told me that >> I need I needed to uh go to a bank to even >> get like any type of confirmation on anything. So I I don't know >> who's just got a ride with you. >> Oh that's my friend. I've known him for real. his fan was from. >> In hindsight, his story sounded plausible. A misinformed young man caught in the web of an online scammer. Yet something about his account didn't sit right with them. Where's he from? >> You just said he's from out of town. >> Okay. So, where's he from? >> Okay. Where's he live? >> Huh? >> New York. >> Okay. So, what made you leave your ID and everything in there and try to boogie out of there so quickly? >> That's when I got it in the mail and my grandma told me that it wasn't legit. I was like I was just kind of like I was like that's weird cuz like I've heard before of like people getting like checks in the mail and stuff like that. And then you know >> I'm going to interrupt. You tried cashing this and folks today. They told you it was fraud. You fled. You called the branch here. I spoke to you. >> No, I did not. >> You did? I did. And they tried to verify it. >> Okay. But you knew it was fraud. You tried to crash it there and then you came here. >> Stand by. All right. Yo, that's You got your ID with you? >> Huh? >> No, sir. >> No. All right. Do me a favor. Just come over here for me for right now. >> Is there a problem? >> Yeah. I'm conducting an investigation. Just take a seat and relax for a minute. Okay. >> But that that what she just what she just >> what she just told me what she just said is not true. When I went to Palm Coast, this is the branch that I go to every single day. Literally every day. >> The one in Palm Coast. Yeah, I go there every day. And she told me, she said, they were on a firstname basis there. She literally told me that I could deposit it in my account. And I was just like, I'm okay. I I'd rather not wait. >> While the officer was still engaged in conversation, backup units arrived on scene and smoothly assumed control of the situation, shifting the interrogation into a more methodical, calculated approach designed to uncover the full truth. >> This officer already read your Miranda, correct? >> Yes, sir. >> Okay. Talk to me. >> Yes, sir. >> Who's Kenyatta Johnson? I that's what that's what I told him. I have no I have no clue who that is. >> That's why I thought it was odd. And I called and then I called my Well, first I called my grandmother. I said, "Do you know anything about this?" >> How do you know this guy? >> I for a while. I met him when I lived in Jacksonville. Just a friend. I met him at a music studio. >> So now we're going to cut through all the BS. Okay. >> Huh? >> This guy right here, your problem? >> Yeah. I'm in there at least for the same [ __ ] >> Really? >> Yeah. >> Why are you Why are you looking at me? >> What am I looking at you? Am I hurting your feelings? >> No, you just like looked at me like I was supposed to know something. >> Yeah. Oh, yeah. Well, because Johnson said it's made to you or that person. >> Yeah, I have. That's what I'm telling you. I got >> So, so your So, your first your first reaction would be to >> I called my grandmother cuz that's where it said it was from was from my grandmother. And then I looked on the Treasury website and then once I looked on the Treasury website, it said this is redeemable. this has met its maturity. And then I called Wells Fargo because it said I could redeem it online. It would just take 10 to 14 business days. So I was like, who would want to wait that long? So then I called Wells Fargo, the one in Palm Coast first. And I said, is this something I'd be able to cash? And that was last week cuz I I was, like I said, I was nervous about it. And then I went there and once I got to the first one, she said, "Well, we would have to hold on to it and make a copy." >> You have the envelope that it was mailed to you in? >> No. What I'm trying to tell you is then why I'm looking at you in front of you is don't cover for anybody. If somebody gave you this and told you it was good, >> right? >> Okay. Because my guess somebody gave it to you, hey man, this is >> his address. >> Your story ain't making sense. I've been doing for 30 years and it's not making sense. >> Your grandma was the was the return receipt on the envelope? >> No. >> So why would you call your grandmother? Your grandmother's name is on there. >> It literally said from my grandma to Owen Kirkpatrick >> on what? >> On an envelope. And then I opened the envelope and I saw there were there's a bunch of those in there. My first reaction was like what the hell? Because my grandma the reason that I first thought it was even slightly real is because when I was little, my grandma never used to get us Christmas presents. She would get us CDs, like savings bonds. So I was like, maybe maybe it's like I'm about to turn 21. Like maybe I can cash them in. So, I called her and once I talked to her and she was like, "Yeah, like I did not I don't even have that much money to give you." I called the the treasury thing and they told me that it was redeemable. And that's also what they told me at the branch at Palm Coast. They said, "Yes, this is redeemable. You could redeem it right now. The only thing is if you redeem it right now, we will have to deposit it like a check and it will be held for 4 to seven business days." And I was just like, "All right." Right. So then I called the nearest branch which was here from Palm Coast and they said, "Yeah, go ahead. You're more than welcome to cash. You're more than welcome to cash that here." And I was like, "Well, it's for a large amount of money." Like, and they were like, "It should not be an issue as long as it's redeemable." And I came in here. She looked it up on the computer. She put it through the little swiper thing. She said, "Yes, this is redeemable." So, I'm not sure. >> Well, bad news is it's not redeemable. It's fraudulent. And we checked the we checked the actual Treasury Department and that's what it took. >> Yeah. I I I I already knew. I already knew. I I knew from the second she she told me she was calling to verify. I was like, "Of course." >> So, you're telling me it's a coincidence that this guy's introduced or doing the same thing. And you happen to be with me trying to cash a fraud. Well, Bond, but I'm I I met him in a studio in Jacksonville with my friend and that was almost four years ago. >> Well, if you known him for 4 years, then you should probably know that he's been arrested. >> Well, he also doesn't really like live in Florida. Like, he's been staying at my house for the last couple days. He doesn't live in Florida. I'm not sure. All right. No, you can sit right here. Okay. Thank you. >> At this point, it was becoming clear to the officers that Owen was far more resilient than they had anticipated. He held firmly to his original encount, insisting the check belonged to his grandmother and refusing to mention any involvement from his friend. With his story unchanged and the pressure mounting, the officers decided to switch tactics, deploying another approach in an effort to finally break through his defenses. Is that the only one you had with you >> today? >> What? >> That bond? >> Did he just get let go? >> Yeah. >> Is there something else you want to say? inventory on it. >> I mean, if he's obviously involved, why are you covering for him? Cuz now you're upset he got let go. >> We're going to do an inventory to search. Okay. >> I uh I in the uh in the glove box is locked, but I do have I have a firearm in there. >> Okay. But yeah, I I have the bill of sale and everything, too. >> So, here's what's going to happen. That that firearm is going to go to RPD. >> Okay. And they're going to have it for a little bit because they're going to test it and all that other stuff like >> 100%. >> Okay. So, they'll notify you when it's ready for you to come get it. >> He just got let go of them, >> huh? >> He just got let go, though. >> Yeah. You said he didn't have anything to do with it, right? Is that what you said? >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> You got the He's the car. >> They're in the car. Oh, there and there's a there's a pickle hero and the robot. >> But I will say the only thing that's in that car that is mine is what I didn't that I'm not going to lie to you. I I don't I don't know trying to be that person, but that that backpack in that car is not mine. I don't give I don't give a [ __ ] He just told you that backpack red. When he said red backpack, that's why I just looked at him. Crazy. He didn't have no red backpack. >> What's in the backpack? No clue. No clue. No clue. >> Look, dude, it sounds like to me you're a good kid that got wrapped up with this guy. >> I've known him for a long time. >> Yeah. Well, he had you do his dirty business. >> No, I I will be completely honest. He came he he came to my house. When he came to my house, I showed him I had those. And >> honestly, >> every time >> he was like, "Oh, are are those real?" And I'm like, I'm not sure. >> So, >> he could have mailed them to you and then all of a sudden it just showed up. >> Well, the thing is he I got them like a week ago and when I got them in the car >> in the glove box in the glove box, but the glove box is locked. You got to take the uh the key and slide it >> in the car. Well, listen, >> that would be a that if that happened, that would be crazy >> because I'm I'm going to tell you, >> unfortunately for you, >> whatever's in that freaking backpack, it's in your car. >> Are you serious? >> Yeah, >> dude. That's not my You could You could probably There's probably That's not even for white people. Like hair cream in there. It's not That's crazy. That's crazy as if that's if that's the case. That's That's genuinely crazy. It's not my backpack. >> I don't got no reason to. >> Like I said, like like when when the lady just came out here yelling, hooting, and hollering, saying that they told me at Palm Coast that that was fraudulent. I told him straight up, I know the lady in the Palm Coast branch on a firstname basis. I went in there, Miss Bana, could I cash this? She said, "You could cash it, but we'd have to deposit it." She said, "You should try another branch." I came here and you got no reason to buy it. I should know I up. If I go to the car, I need you to sit back down. >> We're going to search you and then you're going to get in the car. >> While searching his vehicle, officers recovered yet another firearm. The list of charges was now already piling up, and the pressure was getting pretty intense. At this point, the officers began to wonder how much longer Owen could hold out before the thought of being framed by his friend and the possibility of facing some jail time finally caused him to crack. >> Are you serious, dude? Okay. Ow. And I'm going to talk to you real quick. Okay. >> Yes, sir. >> Cuz I have a I have kids your age, believe it or not. >> I'm 47. I have a 20-year-old son. Okay. I got um and I want to just ask you from me to you. >> Okay. So, I'm going to read this again. Do you understand these rights? Yes, sir. >> With these rights in mind, are you willing to talk to me? >> Yeah. >> Okay. So, listen. >> I feel like you are being taken taken advantage of. Okay. >> I I I understand. I know what you're going to say. You already told it to me. But it's just like even even if I say that is the case, what what is that going to it's not going to do for me? >> Well, in the long run, it might. I'm just in the long run it might it may. What I'm just trying to tell you is that we already know the situation. Okay. >> The problem is is you're covering people that are or you're I'm I don't know if it's multiple people. I don't know if it's one person, but you're covering >> for for a person or people that are using you as a young kid as their fall guy. >> Right. >> Okay. We 100% believe and we don't have enough to to pin it on them because you're taking the fall for them and that's what we believe. Okay. >> Um what happens to me though? >> What do you mean what happens to you? >> All that stuff is paper. >> And I know you don't want to be a rat. >> It's not that. It's all that stuff's paperwork. All that stuff can be gotten is as soon as I say something, all someone has to do is go and request the paperwork and then I'm cuz I said something. So what's worse? being in jail or having someone come do something that you or your family. >> Okay. So, you're worried about you're worried about your safety. >> I mean, if you're worried about your safety, I get it. I do. >> Sure. That I mean, yeah. Yeah. I mean, 100%. I I I don't I've never been in trouble for >> I know. I already know this. That's why I'm talking to you. Okay. I already know that you've never been involved in something like this. And >> start work tomorrow. Okay. I'm literally supposed to >> And you know what? I hate the fact that you're back here and we're taking you to jail for this because I feel like you're being taken advantage of and out of the fear of what somebody might do to you. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> I just want to know that I'll be safe if I talk to you. >> Yes, you will be safe. >> 100%. >> Yes. Finally, their suspicions were on the verge of being confirmed. But just as Owen began to speak, it became clear that what they were about to hear was far more than a simple check forgery case. A whole can of worms was about to be opened and nothing had prepared them for what was coming next with the things that I know for a fact. >> Tell me tell me how this all went down. >> There's way more way more. That guy's not even that like that compared to what there is behind it. There's a lot more >> a lot more. >> There's there's like there's someone >> who has all of those times probably thousands in somewhere in Orlando right now and I know where it's at 100%. and know who makes those and the rest of the stuff that I know because now I feel completely over by this guy one I don't even know his name and I've known him for years. Um >> how do you know these people? Put put it that way. >> Him. >> Okay. Through him. >> Yes. >> Through Mai. >> Yeah. And the stuff that I could tell you it'll probably make five movies on. I I I promise you like there is a lot. >> So he's the one that you know that's affiliated with all this stuff that's going on? >> A lot. >> Okay. And it's all the counterfeiting. >> Oh, it's it's a lot more. A lot more. >> Okay. So, how did you get involved with today? >> Um I like uh like I said a couple years ago, >> not loading the printer. >> Huh? It's not loading the prince. >> Hang on. >> Just copy and put in the email and send it to him. >> Okay. >> I I met him through a mutual friend. >> Okay. >> So, that was a few years ago. So, what's the current >> what what was the current situation today? >> I I know >> he's been staying with you. >> No, no, no. I know what he does for a living. One, which is this. And >> which is what? >> Fraud. >> Okay. Um, and then but he told me cuz I told him how I had some like I had a bunch of stuff just not go my way recently. I lost a lot of money and I've been reeled down. And he told me that, you know, I know someone who can make these, but I'd have to come down to Florida. And I don't know if this is all like a coincidence or if I'm >> He was saying this to you. >> Yes. I don't know if this is all a coincidence or if he's just been like fiddle with my head, but every time he comes down to Florida, he he takes the uh what's it called? The the bus uh that that goes all the way around. >> The Greyhound. >> Yeah, he takes the Greyhound because he's he's always told me that can't go on planes because he's on the run for something and everybody's always told me that. So he tells me he's like look I promise you 100% these are like he was like he was like I want you to take one right now. He was like I will give you one. He was like >> meaning today. >> Uh >> this morning. >> Yes. I I don't remember. I have to ask my girlfriend when he came but it was either yesterday morning or the night before that >> is when he said when he arrived here and we went and got them. So when we went and got them, he was like, >> "You went where to get them?" In Orlando? >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> When we went and got them, he was like, >> "What part of Orlando? Like Sanford or >> Oh, no. Downtown Orlando." >> Downtown Orlando. >> I I know exact like they they they said way too much on the phone on speaker phone. And >> And what did he do? Did you guys drive down there together? And >> I drove down there in my car. >> Okay. So you took him down there? >> Mhm. >> Um >> he grabbed a bunch and I I You know what? If I if I'm going to say the truth, I'm going to be completely real with you. The other name on those is if mine didn't go through, he was going to go to Jacksonville to give to Kenyatta or whatever the name is so she could try and do it at her bank, which I know he said too much and I heard all of it. She I I can tell you everything. >> So, she was on the phone with him. >> Yeah. Uh, no she wasn't, but the people that orchestrated it were. And she has, I think, a ratified credit union or something like that. They were going to go try that >> in Jacksonville. >> Yeah. >> Okay. And >> so they tried he tried getting you to see if you could cash it. >> Yeah. Because at first I know I know what he does. I'm not I'm not stupid. Like I'm not dumb. >> Owen continued to sing like a canary, holding back no detail. But just when the cops thought that they had heard it all, he dropped another bombshell. He he told me he was like, "Look, >> check this out." He was like, "Go on like the official like Treasury website," which I did. I typed in all the numbers on it just like how you do with the stimuluses, >> and it said it was valid, redeemable. It was Yeah. It said it was matured and everything for like 8,200 bucks or something like that. >> Really? >> Yeah. So, I was like >> I was like, "There's no way." I was like, "There's seriously no way." And >> Okay. So, you were under the impression that this is going to work. >> Not that it's going to work, but that it wasn't fraud. Like, I'm not a dumb. I wouldn't do something like like fra fraud is like I I know how fraud is. It's very tedious. Like, the smallest things. And I was like, "Dude, I'm not trying to do fraud. Not trying to ruin my bank account, but I pay all my bills through." And he's like, "It's not." He's like, "It's not getting deposited in your account, so it won't mess up your account." He's like, "When you go in there, it's not like how >> you're cashing it in." >> He's like, "It's not like they're doing a check where they got to call and verify." And then the first time I went in there, they were trying to call and verify. And I was like I was like, "How?" I'm like, "Why are they trying to call and verify?" >> And that was this morning at the other bank. >> Yeah. And I was like, "Why are they trying to call and verify? It's legit." I'm like, And so I go in the car and I tell him I'm like, "What?" I'm like, "Dude." And he's like, he's like, "They're tripping." And he was like, "Just let's go to the bank that you like always go to." Cuz since I moved to Palm Coast, I've always gone to the one branch where Britney or whatever her name works at. And I went in there. >> So, how many banks did you try up there? >> Two. There's only two in Palm Coast. And this >> So, you went to the one and then it didn't work. They were trying to verify. >> Yeah. So, the first one they tried to They didn't even put it like through the little like like scanner thing. They just looked at it and I could tell like they they were thinking about it. >> They just looked at it real funny and cuz I said something to him about it and then they took it to the back and they were like >> which which Wells Fargo was that at? >> It's a big plaza >> on Palm Coast Parkway. >> Yeah, it's like one of the only plazas in Palm Coast. >> Yeah, I know where it's at. >> So >> yeah, I know where it's at. It's Yeah, there's a tattoo shop over there. Um >> I'm not sure. It's just like >> the post office is right there, too. Across the street. Yeah, >> okay. I know where it's at. I went to I live in Palm Coast. Yeah, I went I went in that one and they looked at me real funny and I was like like at first I was just like cuz I did my research on it first and it said that they stopped making treasury bonds in 2012. So when they saw it said 1993 they asked me how old I was. I was like I'm like why does this not seem right? And then they were just like I was like >> okay so you immediately you so they what did they do? They give it they gave it back to you. You know, I told them I was in a crunch for time. I need to go somewhere. I was like, I'm >> And at that point, they gave it back to you. >> They gave they gave me back to >> I'm shocked that they did that. Okay. >> Uh went to the next uh >> to the other one. >> Uh I chatted it up with the teller. We were just talking for a second. I gave it to her. She ran it through the machine and I could see on her computer. It literally said like the whole bond thing like it's matured. I could get the money right then and there. But I've had issues with that Wells Fargo specifically with like taking uh cash out and she knows this cuz she's always my teller every time I go in there. She was like this is like an amount of money we wouldn't be able to give you in cash. She was like I'll have to deposit this. And at my point in my head I'm like I just seen that it says she just read me everything about it. She read she seriously told me everything about it. >> Perkins go in there and see what he says about it. And it look like from my eyes when I'm looking at what she's looking at and what she's telling me, I'm like, "Oh, 100%. This is like there's no way this is fake." Like there's no way the bank would not recognize this as being fake if it was fake. So she's what she's telling me. She's like, "But we have to deposit it." And I'm like, "If okay." So in my head when when I'm right there, I'm like, "Okay, it's it's real." like there's no way she just pulled up my account number and my name and then scanned that and it said it was redeemable for me and it's not real. So I was just thinking, okay, if it's real, there has to be another branch that could give me $8,000. There's no way a branch doesn't have $8,000 in Florida. So I looked on the maps, found the nearest one. I called them and I said, "Hey, I got this. I went to another branch and it seemed as if like they were insinuating they didn't have the cash to give me." So they were like, "Oh yeah, 100%. come up here and we can give you the cash. >> It was at this point that the officers realized that the young man wasn't mincing words when he told him that the information he was about to share could make up five movies. They were gradually beginning to understand what had happened, but they were yet to grasp the depth of the forgery scam. >> And even then, the lady, even though they're the ones who whatever, however that happened, I don't know how it happened, but when I walked in there, the old the older lady put it through the machine and I could see the her computer, too. It even said it was ready to be redeemed and she told me the exact amount of money, exact amount of time. And I'm like, so then when I um when I when I knew something was up was when she wouldn't give me my ID back and then I started to see the police officer go in front of the thing and I was just like, um. So a after that I go to get in the car and the second I get in the car I see him go real fast behind the drive-thru and I'm like but he didn't have his lights on so I was like may maybe it's maybe by the grace of God it's someone else and I was like should I >> stopped so you couldn't back out. >> Yeah. I asked him I was like should I just go? He was like go now go now go now go now. cuz in my head I' I've been under the impression for three years that he's like federally on the run and I went to do it and he just he yeah like you said he stopped behind me and I was just like I immediately as soon as he turned on his lights I just got out the car and put my hands up and I I fib to them. But I mean, like I said, what what I'm telling you now, like >> so he he gave you he gave he he knows somebody that prints those out >> in Orlando. Thousands of them. >> How many does he have on him now? Like is that the only one he had on him or is it that Do you know that he has more with him? >> I don't know. I couldn't honestly tell you. I know for a fact cuz like I said, I've gone across the country to stay with this guy. I've stayed with this guy in California before multiple times. guy. >> Uh I I know him as Como. I know him as Komo. That is what I've always known him as. >> Como as in C O M O. >> Yeah, that's what I've always known him as. >> Okay. >> Nothing else. And I've maybe heard like uh his cousin or someone else, maybe his girlfriend or something, call him like uh just do. Uh and then one time I heard his roommate call him when we were in California Joshua. But that doesn't matter. [music] But >> well, it comes back to like Mai like Robinson is his name, >> which is which is real weird cuz I've heard I there's I just want you to know though cuz I know what now with what I've already said, it doesn't really matter how much more I tell you. I can 100% literally probably give you enough things. >> Did he make you feel like you had to do it? 100%. 100%. >> Like, and if you didn't, he was going to do something to >> No, no. I didn't owe him money or nothing like that. It was just more so of he's it seems like it got to the point where like once I once I was sitting there and I kept looking at him and he wouldn't make eye contact to me and I had the police or the handcuffs on, I just knew I just got completely fiddle with it cuz he was he was like >> he's using you as the fall person >> cuz cuz >> he's trying to see if he can get away with it. Okay. However, >> they have a lot. >> Okay. However, and I'm sure they they have. However, what do he say? Better? >> Yeah. >> Good to go. >> Yeah. >> Okay. I got to sign it. Okay. Um, when was the last time you had contact with him prior to just recently? >> He called. >> Does he just show up or does he >> He call He calls me like every once in a while like he Okay. So, >> and is it usually involving doing stuff like this? He's always tried to get me to do it >> when I was younger. Like, >> hang on a second. Let me close the door for a second. >> Okay. So, this is So, this is what he's involved in. He's gotten you involved in it. >> Yeah. When I was When I was younger, he tried to like kind of like big brother me into it. >> I never had any luck. And every time that I like I've maybe tried doing this once or twice and every time I've tried doing it, it's way too close to call and I kind of just told him to off with it and I ended up getting like my uh financial advisor's license and doing my own thing and then I had some bad things happen to me recently. >> For the officers, it was no longer just about Owen. Robinson had been on their radar for years, tied to a pattern of check forgery scams. But time and time again, he had slipped through their grasp due to a lack of solid evidence. Now, with the situation unfolding before them, they needed to find a way to leverage what they had on the ground and finally bring Robinson to [music] justice. >> And he was like, "Look, these are legit. This is what happened." >> How do you know how many he has on him besides the one you tried to cash today? >> Uh, like, >> how many were in that book bag? >> We didn't find any in the book bag. >> Really? >> Yeah. I mean, I don't know what they went through the book bag. I didn't go through it. >> It was there. Okay. >> Yeah. So, >> if >> you were Okay, the best way. >> And that's his book bag, right? >> 100%. Like I like that's why I was telling them so confidently. I'm like, if you guys do like really investigate this, you could take my fingerprints and put the You could put my hair next to that book bag. Nothing on that book bag will even come back to a scent of me. So, the printer's yours, the two phones, the >> No, no, no, no, no. Just the only things. >> No, I'm saying the stuff. The printer's yours cuz it wasn't in the book bag is in your back seat. >> And the the Glock 23. That is mine. >> The Glock 23 that was in the glove box is yours. >> Yeah, that one. It was locked. >> The other gun, I forget what kind of gun. It's an MP or a 9mm. That's his. >> Yeah. Not mine. >> Okay. Has anybody else been in your car besides him? >> Like recently? Oh. Could it be any Could it Could it be somebody else's book? >> The only person that's possibly been in my car is my girlfriend. >> Okay. >> And when I'm telling you that seriously, this all puzzles in to a lot more a lot worse crazy stuff. You're saying it's deep. >> It's like this is not even like a edge of an iceber. >> It's an organized crime type of thing. >> Like a way bigger like way bigger. And that's that's why >> and he's involved in it and he's trying to get you. He's making Well, he's making you feel like >> you had to go cash it. >> It's not that I had to go cash it. It's just like uh >> you It's like he tried to like I don't know. I don't know what's the best way to explain it, but it's just like uh >> Okay. >> You know, when you're real vulnerable to do something and then someone it's just like I'm not saying you, but anybody. >> No, I know what you mean. >> Someone you're you're kind of easily persuaded. It was it was more of those things. It was just like I haven't I literally haven't worked since I was 16 years old. I've been doing real good for myself. >> Okay. But you got that from him and not your grandmother, right? >> 100%. >> Okay. >> 100%. I never I I never said I got it from my grandma. I said that it said it on the mail. But >> I know, but you were implying that you got it from your grandmother >> as a bond that she [music] bought for you. >> I'm just telling you that with the stuff that I know >> the body cam footage is going to be reviewed. If if I were to like the why I'm worried is because he knows how much I know because I've been all over the country. >> When you go before a judge, okay, >> um you the judge is going to ask you questions about this. Okay. At this point, it's it's it's on camera and you will he won't be able he won't know that this is going on or that you're giving him up. Eventually, he's going to get tied to the crimes that are being committed. >> I I right now that would tie him to multiple different things with his face on it, but people just can't find him in different cities and states. >> Okay. I can tell you he he he's he he stole it when I went to Cal I didn't even know this when I went to California to stay with him. He stole a rental car, a brand new Porsche and had it for probably about a month when he was living out there. He >> and never got caught. >> He got the police like I'm talking about it was on the news like 10 cop cars helicopter chasing him. He crashed into a wall and somehow got away. Somehow got it was all on the news. And that's not like I'm telling you there's so much more. And it's not like it's like family. Like >> he's a career criminal, this dude. How old is he? >> If if he's out to me, he's 31. >> Okay, we have it, but I I'll look it up. >> He's either 30 or 31. >> Okay. Okay. >> And there's there's a lot there's a lot a lot. This is this this is not going to help you today. I know >> and it's not going to help you >> right away. >> Owen had already accepted his fate and the fact that nothing could save him from facing the consequences of his actions. But if he was going down, he made sure that he would not go down alone. >> I know. >> Okay. But what's going to happen is is this is all going to be reviewed by a judge by people authorities. >> Okay. Secret Service because that involves Secret Service and the Feds and all that stuff. >> I know because the thing the thing with the defrauding the institution from him that started because he was doing uh fraud so hard through FiveStar Bank that they hired a Secret Service agent and it was on their website. >> Okay. >> And they tracked him and his cousin down which his cousin's like my age. >> Where does he live now? >> New York. it. It's either New York or Connecticut and he stays with a girl and her kid and calls a step kid. >> Okay. Okay. >> But he's got uh like he's he's got family girlfriends everywhere. I'm telling you, he could hip skip and boogie to Delaware right now and he'd know someone there and it it wouldn't matter. >> Okay. All right. Well, let's get your situation. We'll get out there. Okay. You're going to go through the whole process. You got nothing on you. >> No or anything, okay? Cuz I don't want you to catch make this situation any worse for you. Like I said, this is all being recorded. It's going to be reviewed. The fact that you're admitting that that came from him >> and he made you feel pressured into going in there and trying to uh obtain the funds. >> Sorry. for that um is when you go to court involving this case, they're going to take that into consideration and this that's probably going to be enough to put a warrant out for his arrest to tie him to the crimes that you're talking about >> there. That's like I said like what I just told you there is enough of those things to make movies. I promise you it's ridiculous. All right. >> In the end, Owen was charged with cashing a bank item with intent to fraud, grand theft, use of another person's identity without consent, counterfeiting a payment instrument, and uttering a forged document. He was sentenced to 4 years of probation, 100 hours of community service, and completion of a choices and consequences program. Just when you thought Owen exposing that check forgery scam was surprising, you should meet Bailey, who bared it all to the cops and exposed a whooping $5,000 check forgery scam involving him and his partner in crime, Chantel. >> So, what happened was we have a customer that banks in Albertton. Someone stole her entire wallet and started negotiating checks as if they were her. >> She's saying you owe her $5,000. >> She's lying. [music] And see what I'm saying? Scared money don't make no money on dips and road. >> He was asking you to do was a little shady and risky. >> No, cuz he made it seem like he was simp. >> On July the 28th, 2023, detectives responded to a local bank in Athens following a report of two suspicious individuals later identified as Bailey and Chantel, who were attempting to cash a check over the counter. Officers arrived ready to handle the situation without knowing that they're about to walk straight into the hornet's nest. One that would show just how far a business partner would go to save their own skin and stay out of cuffs. >> Turn off the vehicle. >> Okay. One moment. >> Gary, ID with your man. >> Keep your hands out of your pockets, please. >> With my mother. >> I got you. What's going on, guys? >> I don't know. >> What do you mean you don't know? >> I mean, she was doing the privacy. >> Yeah. For for who account? Which account? >> Who's that? >> That's my best friend. That's who I have a business with. Just my mom and dad ever. >> The account's closed. >> What? What's account closed? Well, >> whatever account you're trying to get that money from is closed or deposit the money in is closed. >> My account should be closed. She said something. >> The bank's the one that called us. >> I don't know. I'm just >> has a business. >> That should be closed. [ __ ] I know she had transact. >> Gotcha. All right. We'll figure it out, man. You got your license on you? Yes, sir. >> Check. I'm not trying to do anything. >> Yeah. No, I got you, man. I got you. Simple, huh? You trying to cash a check, were you not? >> No. >> How do you know him? >> I gave him 5 cash the check. >> Huh? >> Yeah, you can call whoever >> 053. That made sense to you to give him $5,000. This was like teamwork and he said he made money. >> So you said the account belongs to your best friend? >> Yes, sir. >> Is a business associate too? >> Yes, sir. >> Okay. >> I verified it, too. >> Yeah, man. We'll get it we'll get it figured out, man. We just got a call from the bank saying that somebody's trying to cash a check or whatever y'all are doing at from an account that's closed. And so that because because that is closed. >> Yeah. because that because it's closed, they have to call us just to confirm that, hey, it's suspicious activity. We got to make sure nothing crazy is going on. Whichever account you're trying to work with is a is a closed account. >> Whoever account her account >> from here. >> What account are you trying to Are you trying to deposit or withdraw? >> She's trying to cash a check here. She account >> through what account? >> My account. >> Well, they're saying that your account is closed. >> My account's not closed. >> That's just what we're being told. Okay. Do you have like a like an app or anything with your account on it? >> Like what the hell is going on? >> Yeah, I got you. >> What the heck? So, it says my cards and then when I scroll down the cards, four cards in the account. So, it's going to say stolen, stolen, stolen, and then the last card was restricted, but it's not restricting it. >> You got to clear it up. >> So, that's clear. >> Were the other ones stolen or lost or something? >> No, they reported it stolen because my son He's in New York City. >> Okay. >> I have a 14-year-old who resides me and that's how people gotcha. Gotcha. Gotcha. >> And so he called me was like, "Hey, mom. I got a notification that I can't use my car." So I went in and I traed that out and we never did. >> So I worked fast and my boss just called me and she's going to call me back and I guess let somebody tell me what to say to you. >> Yeah. We just need some clarification. >> Yeah. Tom, we're just waiting for the call. >> I'm guessing she picked me up. Am I being entertained or >> Yeah, just give us a few and uh we'll get this thing figured out. Okay. >> While they were waiting for the arrival of the bank manager, one of the officers started talking to the bank employees who was about to expose the couple's nefarious acts. >> So, um the manager of the ATM is coming around. She's right on. So, several instances of them trying to negotiate fraudulent check. Um even another time they were impersonating somebody totally different. Um it's a closed account so we can't do but Roanda is coming around and she can explain everything better to you. >> I'm the manager of that department that called in um this but basically here's the deal. This is a an account um that we know has fraud on it. Okay. So what happened was we have a customer that banks in Albertton. Someone stole her entire wallet and started negotiating checks as if they were her. So they would go to different locations before we realized what was going on. I think we had negotiated one or two. Okay. So about 2 weeks ago they were in Coington doing exactly what they're doing right now but just on a different person's name. So previously it was a T t uh whatever Tedra. Okay. So, the check that we currently have right now that we pocketed, it's the same check, but it's a different check number, same account number, same routing number from the same person. The gentleman that's with her was there in Coington 2 weeks ago. He was able to get away from the police, so that's why we weren't able to catch him. So, now they're here in Athens doing the same thing. This is our first time seeing Shante, though. So, >> so the check that's in there right now is to Shantae. >> Correct. >> And Cumington, is there an ongoing case currently? >> So, we did file police reports. I'm quite sure y'all can see record of that, but I want to say it was approximately like 2 weeks ago. I don't have the exact date. I can get that information. Whatever. That's so we know for a fact they're purposely intentionally trying to negotiate checks that are draw this closed account. So, >> yes, ma'am. >> Cuz this is the one that was trying to negotiate in Coco that got away. >> I believe that is. >> Yeah. So, he Yes, definitely. >> Can I go get him real quick? >> You sure can. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Armed with this information, they turned back to the duo once more. Realistically, they didn't expect an immediate confession. Yet, deep down, they still held on to a flicker of hope that in that crucial moment, they would do the right thing. >> Let me ask you something. How many times, and be honest with me, have y'all like gotten into a habit of like cashing checks in the past few weeks? Cuz we have uh we're being told that this isn't the first time something like this has happened. It's happened in Coington and that y'all are >> Yeah. and that y'all are trying to >> I don't know nothing. >> Well, they're saying that you're involved as well. Like they have there's videos on every like at every bank y'all go to >> me this van. >> That's just what I'm being told. I don't know if it's this van. >> No bank with her. >> I work in I work Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. I do my driving. I mean, there's a potential way we can clear this up today if it's cool with you for us to search the vehicle and your person for any debit or credit cards that don't belong to y'all, any checks that don't belong to y'all, anything that would be consistent with fraud. >> This is my car. >> Did you hear what I said, though? >> All right. So, a potential way that we could clear this up today, not saying indefinitely, but as far as today goes, if you give us consent, we would search the car and your person for any potential fraudulent activity. So, any credit or debit cards not in your name, any checks not in your name, anything like that. Would that be okay? >> I mean, that's fine. I'm not I'm going >> They're claiming that what y'all are doing is trying to cash a fraudulent check is what they're claiming. How's the check project though? >> I'm confused >> cuz he I mean that's some tennis shoes. >> This is the first that I've ever been involved in this. They're saying that this has happened multiple times. I everything up my pocket. >> Yeah. >> I don't know nothing. I'm not here. I don't know nothing about >> you have a wallet. >> Huh? What was that giant thing that was in your pocket earlier? >> What do you >> The giant thing that was in your pocket earlier? >> That wasn't my wallet. This is my stuff. >> There was a large item that was in this pocket when I first got out with you. >> The search was growing increasingly intense, but unbeknownst to the officers, Bailey had already anticipated their next move and was determined to stay one step ahead of them. >> I can even show you in my account that I open for my >> All right. Nothing else is on your person. >> All right. Go ahead and step on out, my guy. I'm just going to pat you down real quick. Make sure you don't have any weapons or anything like that on you. >> All right. If you just want to step right over there. >> Yeah. I've never even been in Coverington or any Excuse my car. I just dropped my kids off in Alabama. >> What's this? >> Oh, no. This ain't mine. >> It's not yours. No, sir. >> Jam's on your back. You're going to be detained for now. Okay. >> What? >> I know that that's what was in your pocket. than that. >> Don't even start. All right. >> I mean, that wasn't in my fight. You being rude. >> You good? >> That's That's work. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> So, I'm being detained for >> You are being detained. >> That's cool. >> We'll figure it out, man. >> Cuz you find me, but either way, I'm going to >> see. Look, you're already going down. You're going down a defensive path, man. >> Cuz you trying to say some cars mine that's not mine. >> Say a word. >> And >> like I said, you're just detained at this point. You're not under arrest. Okay. >> Okay. >> Huh? That's the one they have on camera. >> That's me on camera. Hello. >> Oh, okay. All right. Let's go back here to car 166. >> Yeah. I'll get everything for you. Okay. >> Have a seat for me. >> We'll figure it all out. >> Like I said, you are just detained. You don't have to say a word. I'm not asking you anything. And if I have questions, I'll read you a right and we'll go from there. Okay. After securing Bailey in the police vehicle, the officers were prompted to conduct a search on Chantel's car because of something the male suspect had mentioned to one of the officers. But it didn't take long for them to realize that it was just the man that had a thing or two to reveal to them. >> He told me there's a bunch of checks in here. So, probably need to yank her out, too. >> Okay. >> Come out this side. We're going to search the vehicle. >> What was my lie? >> Well, we found evidence that there's been bank fraud going on. So, go ahead and step out. >> I don't have a piece of >> But you're in the vehicle with the gentleman that did. So, yes, you do. But I just met him. >> Okay. Well, that's unfortunate. I would caution you on who you hang out with from this point forward. >> No, no, no, no. He's supposed to give me $5,000. >> They're supposed to give me $5,000 today. >> Okay. Well, I don't know if that's going to happen or not >> because we sell shoes. >> Yep. >> She told me that they had a business loan or something like that. >> Yeah. >> They're looking for investors. >> This was 2 months ago. >> Okay. The bank should be able to confirm that because I put $9,000 into my account. >> Okay. >> And then by $11,000. I put $9,000 in one and then like three 3,000 in another. >> Mhm. >> And then um I gave them the $5,000. >> Where you getting Where you getting the the nine and three? >> You got Okay. So what it is is I got into an accident back in December. >> Okay. >> And so I finally got my settlement. So she I spoke to her cuz she put on Facebook that they had a business. >> Yeah. >> So I said, "Okay, >> what would you what can I do to help generate a second income?" >> She said, "Well, you can invest in us. I have a home name." Said, "Okay." She said, "He got a legitimate business. It's a sneaker business." I said, "Okay." >> I wrote I gave her the $5,000. >> Yeah. >> After I given her the $5,000, she said, "Okay, and within two months, we going to break it down. you're going to get $5,000 and then we're going to give you, you know, the interest or whatever the case may be. And I said, "Okay, that was fine." >> So then today [clears throat] I'm off work today. >> Sure. >> I have a schedule Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. >> Keep going. >> And so um after that, I called her. She said, "Hey, are you in Athens?" I said, "Yeah, I'm in Athens." She said, "Okay, Rico is in Athens. You can meet him. He's willing to give you your $5,000. She said, I said, "Okay." She said, "This is a legit business. We're writing you a check." I said, "Okay, he's writing me a check." He gave me the check. I signed it. I said, "We can go to my bank." Now, if I was up to no good, why would I come to my bank? >> I'm saying, "Yeah." >> So, I said, "Okay, we will go to the bank." He said, "Okay, you going to cash in 2400?" Then she tells you what's going on. I said, she said, "Y'all are supposed to give me my $5,000." She said, he said, "Okay, I'm going to give you your 2400 or whatever the case may be, and then I'm going to cash app the other 25." >> Okay. >> So, I said, "Okay, that's fine." >> What do you do for work? >> I'm a security officer. >> Security officer. Do you have any ID with you or anything like that? >> Well, my work uniform is here. Like I said, excuse my car. I just from Alabama >> dropping my pins off. >> Where do you work as a security officer? >> At Hitachi Distribution. >> Hitachi distribution. Where is that at? >> Interesting. Look at this. Gave me. All right. This is actually him. They printed off his own little ID. >> Yeah, that is interesting. >> So, you just met him today? >> Today? Okay. >> I can My husband's on the phone. >> Okay. >> Where'd you meet him at? >> I met him on >> Did you already explain it to him? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Then I don't >> Did I explain that to you? >> Not really. >> I met Okay. where I met him. >> Yeah, >> I met him over there at the Baby, what's that gas station that I was at? >> Do you know if if she's been involved, too, or is it mainly him? >> No, the last time we caught them in cover, she was not the one in the car, >> but know for a fact that he was in the car. >> Absolutely. Definitely. Yeah, he was able to get away the last time. >> This was in his pocket, which is a bunch of different people's credit and debit cards, and the same within his wallet. >> Oh my god. Can I take a picture of that? >> Uh, we'll take care of it in a minute. Perfect. Perfect. At the track. I was like, "Okay." >> Over at the police cruiser, an officer started to interrogate Bailey. Not quite sure what the suspect was about to say. >> You understand those rights? All right. Understanding those rights. >> I got some questions. Are you willing to talk to me? >> All right, man. Why did you give me a fake like where did you print this off yourself? Somebody else. >> Interesting. Why'd you give that to me instead of your real ID? >> Yeah. You know you got a bunch of warrants, right? Okay. What's the deal with all these credit and debit cards with other people's names on it? All right. >> Half of them are the ones that the girls I used to talk to, but as far as um the other ones, they're just accounts that I had open >> and a bunch of different people's names. >> No, the girls who I was talking to at the time were people who I was staying with and they let me get my check sent to. >> So, if we had contact with these people, would they be like, "Oh, yeah. He's got my cards. That's okay. Or they'd be like, "No, he's not supposed to have any." >> I can tell you that half of them don't even work. I just still have the car. >> All right. Well, let me tell at a minimum, you're going to jail on your warrants. >> Okay. >> Anything further? I don't know. I can't tell you one way or the other cuz I'm not even going to >> probation one. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. So, you got the probation here in Clark and you got some in like two other counties. >> Morgan County. >> So, you'll you'll bounce around for the time being. I'll get somebody here so that way they can go and take you to the jail. That way you're not stuck here. >> Do I have a new charge for this? We got to do some more digging and then we'll pass it off to our investigators because >> right now I'm going for probation >> at a minimum. Yeah. If anything else changes, you will be informed so you won't be like blindsided when you're trying to leave and they're like, "Oh, no. You got all these other charges." >> Write my um my girlfriend number down for me. >> Yeah, we'll take care of all that in a minute. All right. >> When they were done talking to him, they finally decided to go back and search Chantel's car again, but nothing prepared them for what they were about to uncover. >> That was disgusting. >> How in the world does this thing work? How do I get this car to turn on? This key won't work. >> Just kind of stick it. Is the wheel locked? Turn the steering wheel. Turn the ticket. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. It's in park. So, push it in and then turn it. >> Ah, there we go. >> After searching the car, officers took both suspects in for questioning. Although the bank manager's report indicated that they were both involved and had orchestrated several similar scams, the officers still chose to give them the benefit of the doubt. >> Hi, >> are you Chantel? >> Shantel. >> All right. I'm Detective Franco. I want to ask you some questions. I want to talk to you about what happened. Try to clear all this up. [music] And before I even do that, I'll be honest with you. I mean, it looks like a lot of that stuff is on the other guy cuz he had a bunch of stuff on in his possession that wasn't in your possession. You see what I'm saying? >> Okay. >> So, I want from your perspective, I want your side of this story and then I'm going to go talk to him, too. And but you're not free to leave right now. So, with that in mind, I have to read you your rights to make sure you understand these. Okay? So, you do have the right to remain silent. >> Do you understand each of these rights I've explained to you? >> Yes. >> Having these rights in mind, will you talk to me now or do you wish to talk to me now? >> I guess. >> Okay, that's good enough. >> Am I being arrested? >> Well, you're not arrested yet, but obviously you were brought up here to the police department. You're not free to leave right now. >> Um, I haven't I don't really know what's going to end up happening cuz I got to figure out what happened first. [music] >> Okay. You were trying to cash a check with your name, right? >> Yes. >> Tell me about this check. [music] >> Okay. So, I basically purchase sneakers. >> Okay. >> Okay. I have a friend of mine named Ella who told me about this guy, this gentleman who has a sneaker business. Okay. We arranged to meet today. >> Yes. We got here. I met him at the racetrack. >> So, he stated when I pulled up, I was at the gas pump. He stated that, you know, um he wanted to get into my vehicle to go down to the bank. I said, "Okay, no problem. I just wanted my money back." Um he Yes. He owed me $5,000,000. He had a PPP loan or something like that where he opened his business. It was a sneaker business. I know Ella from selling. >> What's Ella's last name? Why did this man owe you $5,000? I didn't realize. >> Okay, because Okay, he has a PPP loan. He stated, okay, and he allegedly has invested. Like I said, I love Jordans, so I was getting them for a cheaper price. They were like I guess it was being sold for like 325 or something like that, but I was buying them for like 225 or 250. And so he met up with me. He was supposed to give me my money back. >> So when he told me he was going to give me when did you give him money? >> Okay. So Ella, who I know him through, I gave her the $5,000. I have $9,000. Well, it was a total of $11,000 from a settlement. And I got that one. I was looking for residual income, a second income. I'm not a professional or anything of that nature, but I know that a lot of people that I, you know, came across lately have been getting these PPP loans and they've been using them for their small business loan. I buy clothes, hair, and so forth and so on. So, I actually have two individuals that I want to invest in. Another friend of mine who's a friend of Ell. >> So, you invested in you invested in >> So, I invested the $5,000 through Ella, right? Did you even know his name or anything? >> I didn't even know him. >> She just said, "I have an investment for you." >> Because she's she has a business as well, but she sells here. >> I got you. So you had you ever met him until today? >> I never met him. So today, >> right, I met up with him at the >> Which racetrack? >> Racetrack. So when the police showed up, I was confused cuz they said you you're depositing a check into account. >> So the check he gave you today, how much was it for? >> It was 2,460 or something like Why wasn't it 5,000? >> He told me that he was going to send they have multiple accounts so they was going to send the money to my cash app. >> Did you see whose names were on the check? >> No, I didn't. To be honest with you, I didn't even pay attention. >> Do you know his Do you know his name? >> He goes by the name of Rico. >> Rico? Yeah. That's what That's all you know him? >> Ty. Go talk to him and then I'll come back and talk to you. >> There were several inconsistencies in Chantel's account that made it clear to the detective that she wasn't being entirely truthful. She appeared to be distancing herself from the situation, attempting to cast herself as an innocent victim caught in the middle of a theft identity scam. >> Mr. Bailey, correct? I'm Detective Frank. They they called me in to come in and kind of look into this situation. I want to ask you what's going on with all this stuff and get your side of this. >> I mean, I'm going to be completely honest. I tell you, >> okay, let me read you this. All right. Do you have the right to having these rights in mind, you wish to talk to me now? >> [music] >> Yes, sir. >> Okay. This check y'all were trying to cash today, where did that check come from? >> Just me and my friend's business that we had with shoes. >> Okay. Y'all have a business with shoes? >> Yes, sir. >> Who's Whose checks are those? >> That's Philip. He stays in California. So, I >> How old is he? >> I think Phil's like 23 or 24. >> Do you know what city in California? >> No, sir. But I can kind of get >> You got his phone number >> in my phone. >> Okay. So he's 23 or 24 and that is from his business. >> That's the business just me and him open. >> Okay. Um >> that's my mama and dad's address on the check. >> That's your parents address. Yeah. That's all that. How did she get the check? Why'd you give her the check? >> I mean I'm going to be I don't know what she told you. I'm not going to lie to you. But I just recently got out. I already know yall know that cuz it shows my records. But >> we I didn't look at all that yet. But >> I saw you had some warrants. But >> probation. >> Yeah. How did you meet up? How did Who is she to you? >> Um, I know her boyfriend, but basically I met her at the gas station today and at Quip Trip and I'm not going to lie, I have a newborn baby that's on the way. So, I knew I could make some fast money from the chick like I did in Cton. They already know it's me on camera. >> What do you mean some fast money? >> Basically, if you write a bad check, it's going to give you the money. [music] >> Oh, no. I know that. But so, you knew these checks were bad? >> I didn't know it was I mean, that's what her bank said. I didn't know they were bad now. >> Okay. But you said something about make some quick money. So did you >> basically I sold some shoes a while ago and I sent Philip the money. So I'm thinking that the check's still good. So >> I got you. So you when did you cash the one in Coington? >> Probably like a month ago. >> Oh, it was like a month ago. >> Then I tried to go back to Cton and do another transaction and for some reason they tried to say that the girl whose account that I was doing that it wasn't her, but it was her. >> How did you end up with her? I just met her at the gas station for some shoes. >> So y'all worked like meeting to do some business. >> Yeah, she was trying to invest basically. >> How did she end up with that check with her name on it? >> I asked her did she want to basically make some money from Phillips so I can basically access some of the money out the account. >> Did you owe her money? >> No, I don't owe her anything. I was going to pay her basically an app for whatever I got from the chick. [music] >> For doing what? >> Basically for getting the money from Phil. >> Okay. So what's up with this name? with this Chadwick name you got uh with your picture on it. >> My friend made me an idea. I told him the about that too. I told him the truth about that too. >> So because I Chadwick is a real person >> and he told me somebody's been stealing his identity. >> Yes, sir. >> Um and your picture is on a license with his name on it. Do you even know this man? >> No, sir. >> He told me somebody's been opening accounts in his name. >> So is that maybe other people you work with? >> I mean my I don't work with nobody. My friend made that. I do. >> Well, what about those credit cards in Chadwick's name? Those Venmo cards? Are those yours? >> I mean, yes, sir. >> Okay. What about all that other stuff in all those other people's names? >> Those were either people I stayed with because I was home when I first got jail or either those were girls that I was talking to. >> Well, one dude, you got like a couple credit cards in his name. I looked him up. Uh, somebody last name is >> Oh, no. That old dude. That's my old That's my girl. That's my girl's um dad. Rachel. That's her dad. I know. Why? Why do you have credit cards in his name? >> I had all my cards because I just recently moved to Ed. >> Yeah, but what I'm saying is why do you have that stuff in that guy's name? >> You talking about why do I have his cards? And so I had all my cards and all the stuff put together so nobody else want to get it from what I'm saying. >> And you say all those other people are people you know? >> Yes, sir. >> But your buddy made that fake ID? >> Yes, sir. He did. >> But this Phillip is a real person. >> Yes, sir. He is. >> And y'all were in business together? >> Yes, sir. He's Asian. I can show you a picture of him and everything. He's an Asian guy. >> Yes, sir. From North Dor, Carolina. >> And he's the one that originally opened those accounts. >> Yes, sir. He did. He verified it, too. >> So, >> I can show you the text messages in my phone if I had my phone right now. >> The detective believed that Bailey had been truthful, at least up to that point in the interrogation. So, he decided to raise the stakes, hoping that Bailey would finally drive the nail in the coffin and expose the inconsistencies in Chantel's account. >> All right, show me a phone number for the spiller. So, but why would his checks be in your >> Because he was homeless. He just moved from North Carolina. >> Okay. >> I'm not going to lie to you about nothing. I can show you like where this dude sent me his picture of his ID and everything. >> Show me. That'd be interesting to see that. >> I have to go to the text message. That's her text messages. So, she knew what was going on. I can show you the text. >> Yeah. Show me. She's saying you owed her $5,000. >> She's [music] lying. And see what it's saying. Scared money don't make no money on Lson Road. That's what I told her we made. What is she saying? She's scared about >> that it'll mess up her account. That's This is me telling her that. I'm not lying about anything. >> Okay. >> You're telling her deposit these in there. >> So we basically access the fund. That's what I was telling. Okay. >> I ain't going to lie to you about nothing. >> All right. Well, show me this Phillip. >> There's his ID. >> That's him? >> Yeah. That's his real name. I ain't lying to you about nothing. >> That's the real guy? >> Yes, sir. >> And how do you know him? >> I know him. Met him at Georgia Tech 11 and basically at the gym. And I'm not lying to you about nothing. All right, >> let me see this real quick. Let me go call Phillip. >> So, he is a real dude. So, how did you meet that guy? >> Philip in Athens to a friend. >> In Athens? >> Not in Atlanta. >> Atlanta. >> At a club or something? >> Yeah. >> Where does he live now? >> He was in California. >> You said y'all were in business together? >> Yes, sir. >> He opened those checks >> for the business. >> That was his business. >> Yes, sir. Show me that thing where where you said something about the social and his the picture of his ID cuz that is his ID. I just didn't see the context there when you told her that she would get some money. All she had to do was cash that check and put it in her account. >> Yes, sir. >> All right. So, he's telling you his social, but why is he giving you that information? Did [music] you have >> We here for the online banking. It's the way it was working. He was making sure that the account was working. >> I got you. >> I'm not telling you no lie about anything. He asked me money for cash up. I've been sending money through cash up. He's at Magic City strip club. It's wells working. All right. >> What What does he mean by wells working? >> Basically, the account wasn't working at first when he first got it and then they got the card milk to my mom about >> I got you. So, cuz he's he's claiming that he does know you, but he's like, I didn't give him I don't know nothing about no account. >> Yes, he does. >> Why is he I mean, obviously >> I believe >> so in on this too. >> No, I mean I guess so if you want to say that. I mean, we were selling shoes legit and I've been sending her money. >> Well, he didn't say that. You said something earlier about making some quick money. >> Yeah, that's what I told her. She can make some quick money. I was basically going to get money out the account that Philip I don't have access to the online banking anymore. >> Well, why couldn't you? Why did you need her is what I'm saying. >> I don't have a bank account. >> So, that's why she would get some quick money is just by putting that in her account. >> Yes, sir. >> Did she know it was like kind of shady? Like she had to cuz I told her basically it was coming through my business from from from me and I didn't even know that the check account was closed. I promise you I didn't. >> Didn't you say you tried to cash one of these before? >> Yeah, they went through. >> One went through, but one didn't. >> Right. >> All right. I'll be back. >> Armed with the evidence from Bailey's phone, the detective decided to confront Shantel. But just when the detective thought that there was no hiding place for her anymore, she created yet another one. >> All right. All right. So, I talked to him and he showed me some text messages and his phone from you and other people. >> Mhm. >> Is there anything else you need to tell me about what went down today? >> To be honest with you, [music] I just don't want nothing to do with what he got going on. >> All right. Tell me what Tell me about it. All I know is no. >> Put a check in your account. >> I just I don't want nothing to do with this man. >> So, where did you meet him? Have you ever met him before? >> I don't know. I He just came up to you and said, "You want to put some money in your account?" >> He came up to me. He said [snorts] um cuz he remembered me from that but I don't want to get her involved. >> So you really do know him from the past. >> He know me. >> How does he know you? >> He came up to me. He said I remember you and I said you know you me. He [snorts] said he said the one I had the business with. >> Okay. Okay. [snorts] He said yeah. I said I said you still selling. He said yeah I'm still selling stuff. know he said I got right now I got a business you know I'm into sneakers and whatever okay then he said I can right now if you want to you know go out on a date I can spoil you and take you on a shopping spree so I said okay he said you order the paint and he show me some papers showing that he had a pizza so I [snorts] said okay and he wrote me a check I said you sure this is legit my sneaker business. [snorts] It's my sneaker business. I remember him. I looked I have in the business, >> but I didn't think much of it. I said, "Okay." We went to the bank and I was like, "Then the police showed up." >> Well, he he told you that he needed to put this money into your account. Why did he tell you he couldn't put it in his account? >> He said he had multiple accounts or something like that. >> But why would he need to put the money in your account? Oh, I know. He said, "I'm giving you this just to show you that I'm real, that I'm upfront with you. We going to go on the shopping next week. I want to with you." That was his words. >> So, that's why he gave you the check, >> right? >> Did he tell you where it was come? Where did he tell you where it was? >> I I asked him. He said, "This is from my company." >> Do you have the text messages from him in your phone? How long y'all been texting? Because I'm going to get a search warrant for his phone and I'm going to get all He kind of showed them to me already, but I didn't sit there and read them all. So, I know he was texting you about putting this money into your account. So, I know y'all >> text me. He said, >> "When was he texting you?" >> About like 4 something >> today. >> Yeah. >> So, then So, y'all are already texting. Y'all didn't just meet up in person. He's texting you already. >> We met at this, you know, right? >> But he was already texting you before that. >> Then he texted me and he said, "Meet me everything." >> Right. But he was already texting you before that about putting money in your account. >> Right. He said, he said, "I'm we was on the phone." He said, "I'm going to take care of you. I'm going to go ahead and >> Do you have those text messages?" >> No, we was on the phone. He said, "Calm down and I'm going to show you." >> Did you know what he was asking you to do was a little shady and risky? >> No, cuz he made it seem like he was serious. I said, "Are you serious?" He said, "Yes." He said, "Be." >> So, he told you he wanted to put the money into your account just to show you he was for real. What Chantel didn't realize at that point was that Bailey was ready to lay everything bare to the detectives. Whether he had accepted his fate or hoped his cooperation might earn him some leniency, one thing was clear. No matter how hard she tried to reshape the narrative, the truth was on the verge of slipping out through Bailey's own words. >> That's what she said. Then I said, "So after this, then what?" He said, "Then I'm going to go ahead and take you to the shop." I said, "Okay." We supposed to go shopping. >> Wait, I got to clear something up. Do you know somebody named Ella? >> No. >> How do you know her? >> I met her at the gas station. She's lying to you. I'm telling you. >> What about those text messages? >> I just started texting her today. >> Before you met her or after? >> After I met her, I got her gas station quick. So, I'm not going to lie you about >> No. So, you you got her number thing and that's why you're telling her you need to put this into your thing? >> She said at the gas station she wanted to do it. That's why I seen >> she wanted to do what? >> She wanted to make some money today. >> So you just approached her and said, >> "Yeah, I seen I knew I knew her from seeing her with reality." Basically, I know working from my roof. >> Okay. And you said you want to make some money. What did she have to do to make the money? >> Basically doing the price. >> Okay. >> I'm not lying to you, but I just want to get all this over with behind me. I don't want you. >> Did you go to real, >> right? But but >> what would the risky part be for her? it could close [music] our account >> if it didn't go through. So, she knew there was a chance it didn't go through. >> Right. That's why she said scared money don't make no money. She said she know she know people from New York. She's from New York. >> Right. But how did you know the check wouldn't go through? >> I didn't know it was going to go through. >> But you that it might not because it didn't before. >> Yeah. And that's why I have the >> You didn't offer to take her on a shopping spree? >> Yeah, I did. That's why I have the um the charge in New County. He just told me where it say fleeing. >> Oh, new that's why they caught me at Pinnacle. They talking about the check didn't go through >> and you ran from them. >> I did cuz I didn't want to go to jail. I just >> I got you. I figured out what's going on here. So, she knew it may not go through and it may close her account. But she said she's down and you told her it may not go through cuz there was some issue with this account. >> Correct. >> I figured. Thank you, Matt. >> Now, it was time to bring Chantel's game to an end. But she wasn't about to go down without a fight. >> You changed your story a little bit. He told me kind of he showed me his text messages that he talked to you about. So, you knew it was a little shady. So, >> I didn't know it was shady. He told me that he was going to write me a check. I'm being honest. >> Right. But his name is not on the checks. >> I didn't look. I don't know what he thought. >> What I'm saying is you have some You can't just put a check into your account without looking at it. >> No, we was >> Well, no. Listen, listen. His name is not the one on the check. Mus he wrote >> No, I'm not gonna talk about the name at the top of the check about whose check it is. His name is not >> from his business, >> right? But you got to know if you're putting stuff into your account whether it's good or not. So y'all are both going to get charged with the forgery. He's like, she knows what's going on. Now listen, >> don't listen. That doesn't mean >> I'm in the situation. I just told the officer I've been homeless. I'm in a situation. He told me that he was going to We went to the store. I'm not saying you're getting found guilty of it, but you're y'all are both going to get charged with the with the 434. He's getting charged with more stuff cuz he's got a pocket full of identity. >> I don't know what he got. >> No, I I know. That's why you're not getting charged with that stuff. You're just getting charged with just the check. Obviously, you'll be able to get an attorney and fight it. But >> but you'll be out. >> How was I supposed to know that? He showed me that he had a business, >> right? But his name is not Phillip. The name on the check is Phillip. Uh, >> he told me that he has a business, a sneaker business, and I'll show you why. >> But he he told you the check may your account may get closed because it may not go through. >> He did not. >> That's what he said. So, >> no, he did not say that. >> But like I said, they're Well, that's fine. But we're going to take you for for thirdderee forgery. Um, you'll obviously be able to find it. >> Check my application, y'all. is what it is. >> The ones with the nice boss and the flashy money in the I don't know why. After all was said and done, Chantel was charged with thirdderee check forgery, while Bailey faced charges of thirdderee check forgery and identity theft, ultimately receiving a sentence of 100 days in confinement. Damn it.