You know what they say — if someone shows up out of nowhere offering to clean your valuables, maybe don't let them pour blue liquid on your diamonds.
In this publication, we're uncovering a scam that's targeting elderly residents with kindness and sleight of hand — and leaving victims with nothing but an empty jewelry box. Let’s dive right in.
A 27-year-old woman in Miami has been arrested for a scam that involved tricking elderly residents into handing over their jewelry — under the guise of a cleaning service. The valuables? Gone. The scam? Shockingly smooth.
How It Works:
- The scammer approaches elderly residents, usually on foot, offering to buy spare items like copper or picture frames.
- Once inside the home, she gains the victim’s trust by suggesting she can also “clean” their jewelry.
- She places the items in a container, pours a blue liquid over them, covers it with a napkin, and tells the victim to wait an hour before removing it.
- When the napkin is lifted — surprise — the jewelry is gone, and so is she.
Who’s Targeted:
This scam is targeting elderly individuals, particularly those living alone in the Flagami neighborhood of Miami. Victims are often trusting, kind, and less likely to suspect deceit from someone who appears to be offering help.
Real-Life Example:
In one incident on NW 2 Street, a victim handed over jewelry worth nearly $48,500. The suspect used the fake cleaning trick, then disappeared. A similar theft occurred just days later using the same method. Altogether, the stolen items across cases are estimated at over $50,000.
Why You Should Care:
These scams aren’t just about theft — they’re about trust. Scammers like this exploit people’s kindness and openness. For many elderly victims, the loss isn’t just financial, but emotional too — as jewelry often holds deep sentimental value. And unlike credit card fraud, there’s no easy way to reverse this kind of damage.
Actionable Steps to Protect Yourself (or Your Loved Ones):
- Never allow strangers inside your home — even if they seem friendly or offer to buy something.
- Be wary of unsolicited offers for cleaning, repairs, or purchases. Always verify through trusted contacts.
- Keep valuables secured and out of sight when someone is in your home, even briefly.
- Talk to your elderly family members or neighbors about this scam so they’re aware and prepared.
- Report suspicious activity immediately to local law enforcement. Even if you’re unsure, better safe than sorry.
Quick Tips & Updates
Quick Tip #1: Did you know? Most legitimate service providers schedule appointments, carry proper identification, and never offer to clean jewelry on the spot.
Pro Tip: If someone insists you wait before checking something they handled — especially your valuables — that’s a huge red flag.
Update: Katherine Coromoto AnguloRivera has been arrested and charged with grand theft, burglary, and organized scheme to defraud. Investigators believe there may be more victims, and additional charges could follow.
Stay safe, stay informed.
Keywords & Definitions
- Sleight-of-Hand: A deceptive hand movement used to trick or misdirect, often used by magicians — or scammers.
- Grand Theft: A legal term for theft of property with a high value, typically over $1,000–$2,000 depending on jurisdiction.
- Burglary: Unlawful entry into a home or building with intent to commit a crime, especially theft.
- Organized Scheme to Defraud: A legal charge that involves a coordinated, repeated effort to deceive victims for financial gain.
- Elder Scam: A type of fraud that specifically targets older adults, often exploiting their trust, memory, or isolation.
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