NORTH MIAMI, FLA. – An employee at Talk 4 Less Wireless, situated in Northeast Miami-Dade, fell victim to a clever con by a criminal customer, as per police reports.

Surveillance footage from April 18 captures the moment when a woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, approached the employee, asking to use his phone. The woman’s pretext was a simple request to text her mother, a plea captured on the store’s security cameras.

Trust Betrayed: The Deceptive Encounter

The employee, who chose to remain anonymous, recounted how he lent his phone to the woman, believing her story. I gave her my phone, he explained, expecting a quick return.

The woman’s apparent gratitude upon receiving the phone back further misled the employee. However, his trust was soon shattered when he discovered an unauthorized transaction of $1,100 through his CashApp account.

Shock and Frustration: Reactions and Response

Dexter Lubin, the store owner, expressed disbelief and frustration over the incident, captured vividly in the security footage. I lose it, because I just could not believe that happened here, he lamented.

Despite the presence of Miami-Dade Police officers at the store, the thief managed to escape unnoticed. Lubin recounted how the criminal casually inquired about payment methods, a subtle yet crucial detail that hinted at her intentions.

Investigation and Awareness

Miami-Dade Police initiated an investigation into the theft, highlighting its common occurrence in the area. This incident echoes a similar scheme reported earlier in Miami Beach, emphasizing the need for vigilance against such scams.

Reflecting on his ordeal, the targeted employee emphasized the importance of raising awareness. You don’t think this is ever gonna happen until it happens to you, he remarked, urging others to remain cautious.

Seeking Justice: Community Involvement

Authorities urge anyone with information regarding the theft or the suspect’s whereabouts to contact Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers. The promise of anonymity and a potential reward serve as incentives for community involvement in combating such crimes.

As incidents of phone scams persist, vigilance and awareness remain crucial in thwarting these deceptive practices.

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