New York man charged with larceny for defrauding Fairfield resident out of $1 million
Police say Malik Smith led the victim to believe the loan was part of a legitimate SBA program. Smith told the victim to provide him with personal and financial information in order to secure the loan.
More Stories
A New York man has been charged with larceny after he defrauded a Fairfield resident out of $1 million, police say.
Malik Smith, of Flushing, New York, turned himself into police Monday.
Smith's arrest was the result of an investigation that began after a resident informed police that in March 2024, they were contacted by Smith regarding a loan affiliated with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Police say Smith led the victim to believe the loan was part of a legitimate SBA program.
Smith told the victim to provide him with personal and financial information in order to secure the loan.
Police say during the scheme, the resident sent payments using Zelle, Western Union and bank wire transfers to multiple individuals and business accounts.
They say initially more than $150,000 was sent but ultimately the amount exceeded $1 million.
Authorities used search warrants, financial analysis and coordinated with financial institutions to identify those who received money connected to the scam.
Additional arrests are expected in this case, authorities say.
Anyone with information about similar incidents is asked to contact police at 203- 254-4840.
Anonymous tips can be sent by texting FPDCT and the message to 847411. They can also be submitted online at fpdct.com/tips.
