Local resident warns of Vicksburg housing scheme

Local resident Alan Jones was the latest victim in a scam operation which occurred within the city. Jones believed he was purchasing a home, when in fact, he was being scammed.

Jones stated the transaction didn’t raise any concerns at the time. “They said they were going to sell me the house. The lady worked up paperwork,” said Jones.  He then went to the bank to collect money for the transaction. After giving the woman the money, the woman made an excuse to leave and indicated she would return shortly.

About 20 minutes later, someone showed up to the home and put a demolition sign in the yard. Jones stated he called the woman and told her he would not be purchasing the property. The woman agreed to meet at the house, but never showed.

“Like an hour or two went by. I went to the store and came back,” said Jones. After returning, he noticed several more individuals at the property. “There was actually three more gentlemen at the house and they were trying to sell the house to another person,” he said.

Jones wants to get his story out to the community so others don’t fall victim to the same scam. “I want to have people aware and also I want someone to find this person so she can be held accountable,” said Jones.

Vicksburg Daily News reached out to the Vicksburg Police Department who confirm the incident is currently under investigation. Lieutenant Curtis Judge advises the public to ask for deed paperwork as well as any other documents to show proof of ownership.

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