Nationwide ring used fake warrants, bogus bond companies to scam Iowans, prosecutors say

Four Georgia men received prison sentences for a nationwide scam that defrauded victims, especially in Iowa. The ringleader, Russell Tafron Weatherspoon, directed the conspiracy from a Georgia prison using contraband cell phones delivered by drone. Scammers impersonated law enforcement, falsely claiming victims had arrest warrants for not appearing as expert witnesses. Victims were coerced into withdrawing cash and meeting at specific locations to pay bonds. The operation generated at least $58,825, which prosecutors sought to seize through forfeiture.

Law enforcement linked the group to multiple scams in Iowa City and Council Bluffs, where they posed as sheriff's deputies. Court documents revealed that the men used spoofed phone numbers to appear legitimate and created fake receipts for payments. This case highlights the growing sophistication of scams targeting professionals, particularly in the medical field.