Retired US priest conned out of life savings in scam

Michael — Thu, 18 Sep 2014 19:07:52 +0000

A retired priest in California who was scammed out of his life savings wants the con-artist responsible to pay the money back or go to jail.

Fr Michael Ortiz got a cheque in the mail for $1.6 million, and responded to a form he also received to enter a sweepstake.

The retired priest had planned on donating half his winnings to Cathedral Catholic High School in Carmel Valley.

He wanted to help families with enrolment fees and give scholarships to students.

After receiving the cheque, Fr Ortiz said a man claiming to be an attorney pestered him often, but was interested in his plans for the school.

The man told him that before he could cash the cheque, the priest had to send US$41,000 to cover taxes.

After much hesitation, Fr Ortiz sent the money, as he really wanted to help the school.

But after sending all of his life savings, the man stopped calling.

Last week, Earl Roberts Jr. pleaded guilty to stealing from an elderly person. He was extradited from South Carolina to San Diego.

"I forgive the man, but pay for it, give me back my money or serve the jail sentence," said Fr Ortiz.

Fr Michael Ortiz - CathNews New Zealand