A months long Fraud Unit investigation led to the arrest of a Texas woman, Stephanie Banhart, 29, allegedly involved in a scheme to coerce victims into paying bonds and fees for persons in the Metro jail.
On February 23rd, a 69-year-old man was posting bond for a family member when he received a call supposedly from the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office telling him he would have to pay an additional amount of money or his family member would remain jailed. The victim sent $1,275 to an account later linked to Banhart.
Banhart was booked into the Metro Jail today after being extradited from Texas. She is charged with fraud, theft and money laundering. She remains jailed on $40,000 bond.
An important reminder: No member of law enforcement will ever solicit money. The public is urged to be cautious when giving personal information or money to someone who is not a confirmed and trusted source.
