PLAYERS: Usually two players. Scam is frequently committed by both black and white females. These suspects often work in groups and will change players. The intent of this tactic is to hinder police investigations.

VICTIMS: Mostly senior citizens, both males and females.

CON: Suspect (the catch) approaches intended victim and says that she has found a package. When opening the package, it appears to contain a large sum of money and a note. The note always gives the impression that the "lost money" represents the proceeds of illegal activities and is unlikely to be claimed. The catch then asks for advice on how to handle the money.

Suspect's accomplice then appears (on cue) and when asked, offers assistance. The accomplice usually claims to work for an attorney in a nearby office. After checking with this attorney, it is announced that they can split the money three ways. The only problem is that none of them can spend this money for thirty to ninety days. The accomplice then suggests that each of them offer proof of their financial independence. This "good faith" gesture in intended to prove that they won't be tempted to spend the money before the requisite waiting period has expired. Suspects then place what appears to be $5,000 or more of their own money into the "found package." After the victim duplicates this act of "good faith," the package is switched for an identical one containing blank paper.

THE STING: The accomplice says that the boss must check the found money to verify its authenticity. The victim then accompanies the suspect into the attorney's office building. Once inside, the suspect suddenly has to place a telephone call or use the bathroom. To avoid any suspicion, the victim is given the package said to contain the money. When the suspect fails to return, the victim discovers that the package contains nothing but blank paper.

NOTE: The variety of excuses used to part company with the victim are many and differ between suspects.

FraudTech