LIBERTY, NY -- The Village of Liberty Police Department arrested Jinhao Zhang, 39, of Queens, NY, after an investigation into a fraud reported to the department on August 1.

A Village of Liberty resident reported to the police department that they believed they had been the victim of fraud. Earlier in the day they had been contacted by an individual purporting to be federal law enforcement officer.

The purported federal officer threatened the village resident with the execution of an arrest warrant if the resident did not immediately withdraw $20,000 from their bank account and deliver it to another federal officer who would meet them in a public parking lot. Fearing arrest, the resident complied with the demand and delivered $20,000 to the suspect.

The Village of Liberty Police Department conducted an intensive investigation in an attempt to identify the scammers. The investigation resulted in officers responding to Flushing, Queens, NY, and locating and arresting Zhang.

Zhang was transported to the Village of Liberty Police Department for processing. His vehicle was also seized and approximately $3,000 was recovered.

Zhang was charged with grand larceny in the 3rd degree, a class D felony, and was arraigned in the Town of Fallsburg Court. He was released on his own recognizance to appear at a future court appearance in the Town of Liberty Court.

"Crimes like these are not only financially devastating but also emotionally distressing for the victims," said police chief Steven D'Agata. "I want to warn the community about these types of scams, which often involve the caller exerting intense pressure on the victim, keeping them on the line, and threatening them with arrest. Remember, legitimate law enforcement will never call and tell you to withdraw funds to give to an officer or agent. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately and report it to the authorities. Stay vigilant and protect yourself from becoming a victim of these deceitful tactics."