by Garland, Texas – A 22-year-old Frisco woman has been arrested after police say she tricked an elderly Garland couple into handing over their life savings by posing as an FBI agent during an elaborate phone scam.
According to the Garland Police Department (GPD), the victims, an 80-year-old man and his 77-year-old wife, were manipulated into withdrawing more than $25,000 in cash before handing it over in a parking lot to the suspect, later identified as Jessica Bahu.
How the Garland Scam Unfolded
The case began on Aug. 6, when officers responded to a Chase Bank branch located on the 3200 block of Broadway Boulevard. The elderly couple told police they had received a phone call from someone pretending to be both their bank and the FBI.
Over the course of several hours, the caller pressured them into believing their money was at risk. Following instructions, the couple went to the bank, withdrew more than $25,000 in cash, and drove to a remote location where they were met by a young woman.
That woman allegedly introduced herself as an FBI agent, collected the money, and left. Only later did the couple realize they had been deceived and immediately contacted police.
Suspect Identified and Arrested
According to CBS News, After investigating, Garland detectives identified the suspect as 22-year-old Jessica Bahu of Frisco.
On Aug. 20, Bahu was arrested on a warrant for exploitation of the elderly, a third-degree felony under Texas law. She was booked into the Garland Detention Center, where her bond was set at $100,000.
Court records indicate that Bahu has since bonded out, though the case remains active.
Potential Federal Charges
Because the suspect allegedly impersonated a federal agent, Garland detectives are now coordinating with the FBI to determine whether federal charges will also be filed.
Police say the investigation is ongoing and believe additional individuals may have been involved in orchestrating the scam.
“This was a calculated attempt to take advantage of vulnerable members of our community,” a Garland police spokesperson said. “We urge everyone to remain cautious when receiving unsolicited calls claiming to be from law enforcement or financial institutions.”
Growing Trend of Phone Scams Targeting Seniors
Phone scams targeting older adults have become a nationwide concern, with criminals frequently impersonating law enforcement officers, government agents, or bank employees. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Americans lost more than $1.6 billion to impersonation scams in 2023, with seniors disproportionately affected.
Read Also: California Parents of Missing 7-Month-Old Arrested, Accused of Murder
Experts warn that scammers often rely on fear and urgency to trick victims into handing over money. Common tactics include:
- Claiming a bank account has been compromised
- Pretending to be law enforcement or government officials
- Demanding immediate payment to avoid arrest or penalties
Authorities advise residents to never provide money or personal information over the phone and to hang up and call official numbers directly if they suspect fraud.
Community Urged to Stay Alert
Garland police are asking anyone who may have information about the case—or who believes they may have been targeted in a similar scam—to call the department at (972) 485-4840.
Officials also encourage residents to check in on older relatives, friends, and neighbors to ensure they are aware of the risks and know how to respond to suspicious phone calls.
What’s Your Take?
Do you think penalties for scammers who target seniors should be harsher? Share your thoughts in the comments at ibwhsmag.com and join the discussion.
