For Immediate Release
July 21, 2000
Flim Flam Man
Sheriff Butler announced today that a scam artist, Michael Anthony Wallace (37 YOA), has been arrested and charged by the Sheriff's Office with felony obtaining property by false pretenses and misdemeanor breaking and entering.
He was released by the Department of Corrections on June 3rd and has been victimizing residents of Cumberland County since June 30th. Wallace, using the alias "Joe Jackson" was targeting homes and vehicles displaying an American flag or military insignia. He would use the guise of being an "old Army buddy" and attempt to get into the home.
Once inside, he would distract the resident by requesting a drink and as soon as the resident was out of sight, he would steal objects and flee or ask for money that was supposedly borrowed to be returned. Wallace was very thorough in his activities, going so far as to talk with neighbors to learn residents' names and specifics. He is currently a suspect in several other crimes.
Wallace is a 37 year-old black male, bald, at approximately 5 foot 7 inches and 190 pounds. Sheriff Butler is asking Cumberland County residents that may have been scammed by this man to call (910) 323-1500 and ask to speak with the Watch Commander or a White Collar Crime Unit Detective.