Tupelo PD, DA and PSC: Virginia man charged in Elderly Scam

Yao Lin of Ruther Glen, Virginia, is charged with allegedly scamming an elderly
Tupelo couple out of $19,000

Tupelo, Mississippi (June 1, 2021)- A Virginia man whom state officials and local law enforcement
believe played a key role in defrauding an elderly Tupelo resident out of nearly $19,000 through a scam
that started with an illegal telemarketing-style call. Yao Lin of Ruther Glen, Virginia has been arrested
charged with three counts of False Pretense and two counts of Mail Fraud.

Investigators from the Tupelo Police Department and the Office of Public Service Commissioner Brandon
Presley, working with District Attorney John Weddle, were investigating a scam complaint filed by an
elderly Tupelo resident when they discovered evidence that included video surveillance of the suspect in
the commencement of the crime. The investigation began in March.

Investigators say Lin is part of a group of scammers, using unsolicited telephone calls to trick victims into
purchasing gift cards as payment for debts and other false claims. This individual is also facing charges in
Georgia and has been federally indicted on similar charges.

“Interstate fraud cases are extremely difficult to solve. It takes a team and we are happy to partner with
District Attorney Weddle’s and Commissioner Presley’s offices whenever possible.” Chief Bart Aguirre.

“Enforcing the law against organized fraud presents unique challenges. Many of these scammers operate
outside the borders of our State to prey on our citizens, using technology to prevent their capture.
Whenever possible, we will work closely with local and federal agencies to prosecute those responsible. PSC Brandon Presley, his investigators, and the Tupelo Police Department were instrumental in locating this suspect and gathering the evidence needed to pursue charges.” District Attorney John Weddle.

“It is often our most vulnerable citizens that fall prey to the crimes. I applaud the swift work by District
Attorney John Weddle, our PSC Investigators and Tupelo Police Department in catching this suspect. My
office will continue to do everything in our power to bring these scam artists to justice by working hand-in-hand with law enforcement.” said Public Service Commissioner Brandon Presley.