Deputies in Greenbrier County have arrested a woman as part of an investigation into a suspected multi-state romance scam.
According to jail records, 18-year-old Ginger Taylor Pirada Yanko-Mitchell has been charged with fraudulent schemes and grand larceny.
The Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Office reported that the theft of approximately $3,500 in jewelry, watches, and collectible coins from a home in Lewisburg was reported on Sunday.
A news release states the alleged victim believed Yanko-Mitchell had traveled from out of state to pursue a long-term relationship. In addition to the stolen items, investigators say Yanko-Mitchell solicited $4,000 from the victim, claiming financial hardship related to a family death.
Deputies reported that Yanko-Mitchell was found in possession of latex gloves, which investigators believe were used to prevent fingerprints while searching the home. Authorities also said she was found with property reported as stolen.
“Due to the suspect’s out-of-state residence and the methods used to target the victim, investigators and the prosecutor’s office believe this incident may be part of a larger, multi-state scam,” the release stated. “Authorities are concerned there may be additional victims who were targeted under various aliases, including but not limited to ‘Ruby’ or ‘Seal Masters.’”
Anyone with information related to the investigation is asked to contact deputies at 304-647-6634.
Yanko-Mitchell is currently being held at the Southern Regional Jail on a $10,000 cash-only bond.