–Local Law Enforcement officials have made an arrest and are currently searching for another man in connection with a scam perpetrated in Burt last week.
According to the Kossuth County Sheriff’s Office, Deputies took a report in the Burt area on Monday, February 24th from a person who fell victim to a scam. They told Deputies they had been told over the phone that a grandchild was in trouble and needed bond money to be released from jail.
The scammers stated that $10,000 was needed to free their grandchild, and someone eventually stopped by their home to get the money. Deputies were able to collect video evidence and worked with other law enforcement agencies that have seen these scams being reported in their jurisdiction.
With assistance from the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation, Deputies were able to obtain GPS tracking warrants on two suspects in the Burt case. On Thursday, February 27th, Deputies tracked one of the suspects to a motel in Humboldt. With assistance from the Humboldt Police Department, Deputies arrested 33-year-old Eddie Abreus Benitez of Miami, Florida. He has been charged with First Degree Theft, a Class C Felony, and is currently being held in the Kossuth County Jail.
An arrest warrant has been issued for a 2nd suspect in the case, identified as 28-year-old Carlos Garrido Guzman of Homestead, Florida. At this time, Guzman has not been located by law enforcement.
Area residents are reminded to be vigilant for scams, as many target the elderly population. If you receive a phone call that seems suspicious, you are asked to contact your local law enforcement agency.
