Alleged work-and-travel scam lands woman in hot water

Police in St Ann have charged a 43-year-old businesswoman in connection with an alleged US work-and-travel scam that reportedly left three people out of pocket.

Investigators assigned to the St Ann Policing Division allege that between 2023 and 2024, the woman collected money from three individuals for US work-and-travel placements and visa appointment fees. The complainants reportedly paid a combined US$3,600 (approximately J$576,000), and J$161,000 but neither received the promised services nor any refunds.

The matter was reported to the police after the complainants said they lost contact with the woman and later learnt that she was in custody. Following an investigation, she was interviewed and charged with three counts each of Obtaining Property by Means of False Pretence, Fraudulent Conversion, Possession of Criminal Property, and Engaging in a Transaction Involving Criminal Property.