Seaford, DE – Two New York residents are facing multiple felony charges after authorities say they allegedly participated in a courier scam that targeted an elderly Sussex County man.
According to Delaware State Police, the arrests happened Saturday following an investigation that began earlier that morning when an 84-year-old man reported he had allegedly fallen victim to a scam. Investigators said the victim encountered a pop-up message that locked his computer and directed him to call a number for assistance.
Police said the suspects allegedly coerced the man into withdrawing a large amount of money and arranging for a courier to pick it up at his home. While troopers were still on scene, the scammers allegedly contacted the victim again to coordinate another pickup, prompting further investigation by the Sussex County Financial Crimes Unit and Special Investigations Unit.
Authorities identified the suspects as 51-year-old Dongjun Zou and 47-year-old Wulian Fan, both of New York. Detectives allegedly identified the pair during the investigation and conducted a traffic stop on Zou’s vehicle, taking both individuals into custody without incident.
Zou was charged with multiple felonies, including allegedly receiving proceeds of criminal activity, theft exceeding $1,500 involving a victim over 62, attempted theft, and conspiracy. He was arraigned and released on an $18,000 unsecured bond.
Fan was also charged with alleged attempted theft over $1,500 involving a victim over 62 and conspiracy. She was arraigned and released on a $5,000 unsecured bond.
Police continue to warn residents to remain vigilant, noting that legitimate agencies will never request payment through cash pickups, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
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