Essex Police Nab Alleged Courier in $15,000 Tech Support Scam

On November 9, 2025, Essex police were contacted by a family member of a resident who reported that their loved one had been targeted in a tech support scam. The scammer had contacted the resident via the internet and telephone, claiming their computer was infected with a virus and that they needed to pay $15,000 in cash immediately to fix the issue.

Fortunately, Sergeant Daniel Bruce and Officer David Vangelist of the Essex Police Department responded quickly and were able to intercept an alleged courier at the resident's home before the money could be taken. They arrested 35-year-old Yi Peng Luo and charged him with attempted larceny over $1,200.

Police believe Luo was likely not working alone and that this type of tech support scam is becoming increasingly common in Essex and across Massachusetts. Essex Police Chief Thomas Shamshak praised the rapid response of his officers, stating, "If we catch you trying to scam our residents, you will be arrested." He emphasized that the department will not tolerate such fraudulent activities targeting vulnerable members of the community.