VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. – A Michigan woman was arrested on Tuesday following a $52,000 Facebook Marketplace scam, according to the Volusia Sheriff’s Office.
In a release, deputies identified the woman as 59-year-old Demetria Latimer.
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“Demetria stole $52,000 from an Orange City resident in a fake sale of an excavator on Facebook Marketplace,” the release reads. “Using bank records and other resources, Volusia Sheriff’s Office financial crimes detectives tracked down our suspect outside Detroit.”
Detectives said that Latimer was brought to Volusia County overnight, where she now faces charges of grand theft and organized scheme to defraud. She is held on bond of $25,000.
“The good news is we recovered the victim’s money,” the release continues. “Any day another scammer is locked up is a good day.”
The sheriff’s office released video of Latimer’s arrival in Florida, where the following exchange can be heard between the suspect and Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood.
Chitwood: “I am Sheriff Chitwood. I am the reason why you are here.”
Latimer: “I don’t understand.”
Chitwood: “OK, well, this is Detective Hinkson, and he’s the one who’s been tracking you down on what’s going on. We don’t like to have our residents become victims of fraud.”
Latimer: “I’m - I’m a victim myself.”
Chitwood: “Well, I’ll tell you what: we’re going to give you the opportunity to consult with the detectives...”
Latimer: “Sure.”
Chitwood: “...And he’ll read you your rights, and you’ll explain to him everything that went on.”
Latimer: “Of-of course I will.”
Chitwood: “OK, well, that’s great. We’re glad. Welcome to Florida.”
Latimer: “OK.”
Chitwood: “These gentlemen will take good care of you.”
Latimer: “Thank you.”
However, deputies said they have reason to believe that Latimer may have played a key role in laundering money from others across the country.
Anyone with additional information on this case can reach out to the sheriff’s office by clicking here.
