News Release



For further information please contact: Sgt. Dan Bracker

(417) 895-6767 ext.253

D200446

September 03, 2004



EMPHASIS: Search warrant executed, items seized, one arrested.



On September 2, 2004 officers from the Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control executed a search warrant on a residence in Springfield, Missouri, where business documents, shipping records, computer equipment and thousands of precious gems were seized in connection with the Internet fraud investigation. One male subject of Springfield was taken into custody in connection with the fraudulent activity, and charges are pending.



The investigation stems from a complaint by a Virginia resident, about suspected fraudulent activity on eBay by a Missouri resident. Allegedly, the suspect would sell precious gems to customers on Ebay and then would either send faux gems or not send the gems at all. There are at least 83 victims in various states and countries that attempted to buy authentic gems from the perpetrator.



Formal charges have not been filed on the Missouri resident, but are expected today. The investigation continues as one more suspect is sought in the complaint.