Local fraud cases highlight growing financial crime threats

Stories from multiple communities spotlight a surge in financial crimes, from embezzlement in Lenoir County to a sweeping bank fraud scheme tied to a former KeyBank employee that resulted in $2 million in recovered funds for elder victims. Police in Milford and Brownsville are also investigating significant fraud cases and issuing public warnings as residents face increasing risks. Together, these reports underscore how financial exploitation—especially targeting vulnerable populations—is straining law enforcement and prompting renewed calls for prevention, vigilance, and accountability.