HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – Detectives have arrested a Riverview man for defrauding several victims out of thousands of dollars.
According to investigators, on February 22, 2023, Zachary Fernandez, 19, of Riverview was arrested for defrauding seven victims of more than $42,000.
Fernandez used fraudulent pretenses to obtain funds to be invested in various stocks while providing false information about where the money was actually being used.
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Through investigative means, records were obtained showing Fernandez used the funds for various cash withdrawals, sports betting, food delivery, cryptocurrency investments, and miscellaneous merchant transactions.
“This is a clear case of deception and mistrust,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “The victims in this case trusted Fernandez with their hard-earned money and he exploited that trust for his own personal gain. We hope this arrest will serve as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to engage in similar fraudulent activities.”
Fernandez was booked at Orient Road Jail and is facing charges of Communications Fraud Over $300 Dollars and Organized Fraud of $20,000 To $50,000.
Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of investment fraud is encouraged to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at (813) 247-8200.
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