NYSP: Clifton Park resident scammed out of $50,000 in gold bars

A New Jersey man has been arrested in connection with scamming a Clifton Park resident out of more than $50,000.

State Police spoke with a Clifton Park resident in October, who believed they were a victim of a scam. The victim said they were contacted by someone claiming to be from the DEA’s office, with an arrest warrant.

The suspect allegedly sent the victim a copy of a fraudulent warrant and false credentials. They told the victim to pay Prashil Shah, 22, more than $3,000 to in order to avoid jail time.

A few days after victim sent the money, police said the suspect contacted them again. This time, however, they demanded the victim send $50,000 in gold bars be sent to Shah to avoid prison time. The victim turned over the items on Oct. 23.

Police identified Shah with assistance of the Department of Homeland Security, New York State Intelligence Center, New York State Police and investigators in Wallkill and Maywood in New Jersey.

Shah turned himself in on Nov. 8. He was arraigned in Clifton Park Town Court and released under the supervision of the Saratoga County Probation Department.

Shah never spoke or communicated directly with the person, police said.

Police believe there are more victims. Anyone with information about the crime or if they believe they are a victim, they need to contact State Police at 518-457-6811 or email Crimetip@troopers.ny.gov.