Indiana woman admits to victimizing Coventry widower in scam

CRANSTON, R.I. (WLNE) — United States Attorney Zachary Cunha said that an Indiana woman admitted that she perpetrated an online romance scam that defrauded a 96-year-old Coventry widower of nearly $80,000.

Brittany Rakia Shawnai Lasley, who is from Anderson, Indiana, pled guilty to wire fraud.

Cunha said that Lasley admitted to creating a social media account containing fake profile information on the dating site “Plenty of Fish,” and trying to persuade the victim to provide her with money, credit cards, gift cards, and his personal identifying information.

Lasley fraudulently obtained access to the victim’s checking account and credit card and made unauthorized purchases.

The United States Postal Inspection Service performed an investigation that found that  Lasley had approximately eighty-nine communications with the victim during which she led him to believe that they would meet and foster a romantic relationship.

Cunha said that Lasley also made it seem like she needed the funds for medical expenses, home repairs, and travel to Rhode Island.

Lasley is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 7.