Uxbridge Church Victim To Alleged Scam Artists
UXBRIDGE (CBS) --- Police are warning area residents after a local church fell victim to a scam.
Last month, a man and woman portrayed themselves to members of Saint Vincent de Paul, affiliated with St. Mary's church in Uxbridge, as a couple in need of financial assistance.
The man told church members he had used his money to assist with burial costs for an uncle in New York and that he further had to pay to travel back and forth to New York which is why he is experiencing financial hardship.
They requested assistance for their child's needs, as well as for rent and other living expenses. The man said he needed money to travel to work at a hotel, for tolls and such.
The church provided assistance, but when attempting to verify the information given to them for addresses, they were unable to locate these addresses in Uxbridge and Douglas, as they had been fabricated.
The man, Joseph Viscusi is approximately 57 years old. The woman, Laura Ryan, is approximately 28 years old. They were seen driving a red/maroon sedan, possibly a Ford; Most likely with NY registration plates.
Police say further checks into the background of the two people reveal other scams that they participated in, including similar scams at churches in New Jersey and other locations in North Eastern States. Warrants are out for their arrest. If you see them, contact police.
