Memphis, Tennessee — Two suspects were arrested in Memphis after an alleged legal services scam prompted a Shelby County investigation.
According to the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, deputies received a complaint Sunday, March 9, about an active scam involving individuals allegedly advising victims to hire certain legal services.
Investigators said victims were directed to specific people claiming to provide legal representation. Authorities reported that several victims paid thousands of dollars for legal services they allegedly never received.
Detectives determined that Candice Eddins, 41, was allegedly responsible for coordinating the scheme. Investigators said Eddins allegedly worked with another individual inside the Shelby County jail who was later identified as Derrick Thomas, 41.
Authorities said the pair allegedly misrepresented themselves as legal professionals while arranging payment from victims seeking legal help.
Eddins was arrested Thursday, March 12, and charged with impersonating a licensed professional and theft of property between $2,500 and $10,000, according to the sheriff’s office.
Thomas has also been charged with impersonating a licensed professional and theft of property between $2,500 and $10,000, officials said.
Investigators did not release details about how many victims may have been affected, but authorities indicated the investigation began after a complaint was filed earlier in the week.
The sheriff’s office is asking anyone who believes they may have been targeted by a similar scam to contact investigators.
Anyone with information or who believes they may have been a victim is asked to call (901) 379-7625 to report the incident.
For younger residents or students seeking legal assistance, officials emphasize verifying attorneys through licensed state bar directories before making payments.
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