Seaford man allegedly took cash from disabled person

Delaware State Police say a Seaford man has been arrested after it was determined he was defrauding a man who had both physical and mental disabilities for nearly $20,000.  The initial investigation began on April 8th when the disabled man’s sister reported that her brother had been giving hundreds of dollars to a subject that reportedly said he would pay him back.

Joshua Sears, a 37 year old Seaford man had befriended victim, according to DSP.  He reportedly had been convincing the victim that he had won a lawsuit in which he would receive millions of dollars.  Police say Sears would ask the victim for money to cover court expenses, and was expecting to get money back once Sears received the money.  Police say the victim has been defrauded over the last year and a half for nearly $20,000.

Authorities say Sears turned himself in to State Police on April 14th, and was charged with Crime Against a Vulnerable Adult, a felony charge.  Sears also has been charged with theft by false pretense over $1500.  He was then arraigned and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $7,500 secured bond according to DSP.

Delaware State Police are asking anyone who may have experienced similar incidents to contact Master Corporal C. Arnold at 302-232-3479.