Press Release:
On February 24, 2025, the Franklin County Sheriff's Office (FCSO) successfully apprehended two suspects involved in a large-scale financial scam that targeted a Franklin County resident.
The scam began when the victim received a fraudulent message claiming to be from Norton Antivirus, stating she owed $410.00 for an unpaid bill. After clicking a link, she was contacted by a scammer who gained remote access to her computer, manipulated her banking information, and falsely claimed she had accidentally transferred $41,000.00 instead of $410.00. The scammers then claimed they transferred $82,000.00 to her as a refund and began pressuring her into withdrawing and delivering cash under the pretense of returning the funds.
Over several days, the criminals attempted multiple pickups of large sums of money, even installing an app on the victim's phone to monitor her in real-time. Fortunately, her daughter recognized the scam and alerted authorities.
On February 24, 2025, at approximately 5:30 PM, after extensive coordination, FCSO investigators set up a sting operation at the victim's home. When a vehicle arrived to collect the cash, deputies moved in, blocked the vehicle, and took two suspects into custody.
Arrested Individuals:
Zhen Jin Li (Atlanta, GA) $200,000.00 Bond
TCA 39-17-1307 - Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (Felony)
TCA 39-14-103 - Conspiracy to Commit Theft of Property $50,000.00 (Felony)
TCA 39-17-1324 - Possession of a Weapon in the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
TCA 39-14-103 - Attempted Theft of Property $50,000.00 (Felony)
TCA 39-14-104 - Conspiracy to Commit Theft of Services (Misdemeanor)
Jun Xiao (Atlanta, GA) $150,000.00 Bond
TCA 39-14-103 - Conspiracy to Commit Theft of Property $50,000.00 (Felony)
TCA 39-14-103 - Attempted Theft of Property $50,000.00 (Felony)
TCA 39-14-104 - Conspiracy to Commit Theft of Services (Misdemeanor)
Both individuals are still in jail; their court date is April 28th, 2025, at 8:00 AM.
Seized Items:
$25,000 in cash (linked to previous scam operations)
H&K VP9 9mm handgun with two full magazines
This case highlights the sophistication of modern scams and the importance of vigilance when dealing with unexpected financial requests.
We urge all residents to be cautious of online scams. NEVER allow remote access to your devices, and ALWAYS verify unexpected financial claims with your bank or law enforcement.
If you believe you or a loved one has been targeted by a similar scam, please immediately contact FCSO or your local law enforcement office.