Bainbridge, New York, USA: A 23-year-old Indian national, Tushar Sharma, has been arrested in New York State in connection with a $200,000 phone scam that targeted individuals using fake arrest threats.

According to the New York State Police, the investigation began after a victim reported receiving a phone call from an individual posing as an official from the Department of Homeland Security. The caller falsely claimed that the victim was wanted under a warrant related to money laundering and narcotics trafficking.

The victim was instructed to withdraw cash and deliver it to a designated location in the Bainbridge area while maintaining strict confidentiality. Authorities said the victim handed over significant amounts of cash on two separate occasions.

On a third attempt, the victim was directed to deliver $100,000 to an individual posing as a law enforcement officer. Following this exchange, state troopers intervened, took the suspect into custody, and recovered the cash. The suspect was later identified as Tushar Sharma.

Sharma has been charged with grand larceny, scheme to defraud, and conspiracy. He has been released on his own recognizance and ordered to remain within New York State. He is scheduled to appear before Bainbridge Town Court on April 20, 2026.

Police officials emphasized that legitimate law enforcement agencies do not demand money or threaten arrest over phone calls. Authorities also released Sharma’s photograph, stating there may be additional victims involved in the scheme.

The public has been advised to immediately disconnect such calls, avoid sharing personal information, and report incidents to local law enforcement agencies.