MONDAY, MAY 12, 2025 

PONTIAC, Mich. - Oakland County Prosecutor KAREN D. McDONALD charged Mohammad Gazi, a 49-year-old resident of Warren, with one count of False Pretenses, two counts of Using A Computer To Commit A Crime, and one count of Attempted False Pretense after allegedly defrauding a Waterford senior citizen citizen out of more than $40,000.

The victim was phoned by someone pretending to be a representative of McAfee Computer Security and claimed funds had been mistakenly deposited in her account. On three occasions she was instructed to withdraw money and turn the money over to a man identified by police as the defendant. The victim turned over more than $40,000 over the course of the three transactions. After a fourth contact, the victim became suspicious and contacted the police. The defendant was apprehended as part of a sting operation.

Scammers attempt to exploit people's trust and goodwill, especially seniors," said Prosecutor McDonald. "I encourage everyone to be cautious of unsolicited calls or texts that seem suspicious. Trust your gut and never give away personal information to unverified callers. If you're unsure, call the police."

False Pretenses- $20,000.00 Or More But Less Than $50,000 is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and/or 3 times the value of the money or property involved, whichever is greater. Two counts of Using A Computer To Commit A Crime are punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine. Attempted False Pretenses - $20,000.00 Or More But Less Than $50,000 is punishable by up to five years in prison.

Charges are accusations and individuals are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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CONTACT: OCPOmedia@oakgov.com