Suspects accused of scaring victim into extortion scheme

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A alert from police after a man was scammed out of hundreds of dollars after leaving a popular doughnut shop in southwest Houston.

According to a Memorial Village bulletin, a man leaving the Krispy Kreme shop on Westhiemer said two men were close to his car as he walked to the parking lot. Police said one of the suspects complimented the man on his car, then told him he fixed a scratch on the car and needed to get paid.

"That's pretty crazy. I don't think that's a good thing to do," said customer Maklin Ramirez.

Police said the man told the suspects he didn't have money but was then forced to go to a CVS Pharmacy to put money on a prepaid debit card. When that didn't work, police said the man was told to go to an ATM where he withdrew $200 and give it to the suspects.

"To walk around and scam people like that, that's just ridiculous," said Teasha Fields. "Watch your surroundings. Keep and eye out. Just mind your business and keep going."

Police say it's important to be aware of your surroundings and if you see anyone suspicious in a parking lot, go back in to the store and call 911.

If you do get caught up in the scam, try to call 911 when you are on the way to the location the suspects are directing you to go. Also, it's a good idea to always be with a group of people.