Pennsylvania Gold Scam: Police Seek Victims After $1.5M Loss

Mechanicsburg, PA – Pennsylvania State Police say a 78-year-old Mechanicsburg woman was allegedly scammed out of approximately $1.5 million in gold, a major new development in an investigation involving suspects accused of posing as federal officers.

According to a Pennsylvania State Police update Friday, Oct. 2, investigators identified the Mechanicsburg woman through the ongoing gold scam investigation. Police said she confirmed meeting one of the suspects and a silver Honda on Aug. 28 before allegedly providing the fraud organization with approximately $1.5 million in gold.

The update follows a Sept. 17 appeal from PSP Troop F in Milton seeking owners of approximately $200,000 in gold bars being held as evidence.

State police said troopers stopped a silver 2025 Honda Accord with California registration on Interstate 80 near mile marker 203 on Sept. 10. Gold and an identity-theft affidavit were allegedly discovered inside, and two occupants were taken into custody.

Investigators said alleged scammers have claimed to be ICE, Department of Homeland Security or other federal officers. Victims are allegedly told a criminal case is connected to their Social Security number and instructed to withdraw bank or retirement funds, purchase gold and surrender it to a courier.

PSP is also trying to identify another female potential victim photographed in Waldorf, Maryland, on Sept. 9. Police said that woman had not been identified as of Sept. 29.

Investigators previously said the Honda traveled through the Coudersport and Smethport areas and believe additional victims may exist.

Anyone who turned over gold or cash, particularly around Sept. 9 or 10, is asked to contact the PSP Troop F Milton Criminal Investigation Unit at 570-524-2662. The case reference is PA 2026-1166513.