Five Arrested in Somerset Bank Fraud Scheme, June 13

Five people were arrested in Somerset on Tuesday after attempting to steal $30,000 from a victim’s bank account through identity theft. Police responded to Rockland Trust Bank after a female suspect tried to execute the fraud scheme. Bank employees recognized irregularities in the transaction and contacted the victim, preventing the theft. The case shows how criminals target banking systems and how alert bank staff can stop fraud before it succeeds.

How the Fraud Scheme Unfolded

On Tuesday, Somerset Police responded to Rockland Trust Bank on Slades Ferry Avenue for a report of check fraud. A 20-year-old female suspect exited the bank and walked to a white 2026 Dodge Durango with Michigan plates. Officers stopped the vehicle and discovered the suspects had assumed the victim’s identity and changed his account phone number. When bank employees called to verify the $30,000 withdrawal, one suspect fraudulently authorized it.

Bank Catches the Crime Before Loss

Rockland Trust employees recognized irregularities in the transaction and used a previously documented phone number to contact the victim directly. The victim confirmed he had not authorized the withdrawal. Bank employees immediately contacted Somerset Police, stopping the theft before any money left the account. This quick action prevented the loss and led to the arrests of all five suspects involved in the scheme.

What Police Found in the Vehicle

Officers searched the seized Dodge Durango and found approximately $1,117 in cash, 15 bank cards bearing other people’s names, nine fraudulent checks, a stun gun, nine cellphones and a computer. The evidence showed a coordinated operation targeting multiple victims. The five arrested were identified as Kayana Evon-Laurine Powell, 20, of Taunton; Troy Donnell Gathers Jr., 23, of Marlborough; Brandon Kevin Williams Jr., 23, of Chelsea; Donnie Earl Smith Jr., 24, of Randolph; and Donnie Earl Smith, 25, of Lowell.

Investigators Uncover Identity Theft Network

Investigators determined the scheme involved obtaining funds through identity theft, account manipulation, and use of fraudulent identification and financial instruments. The presence of multiple bank cards and fraudulent checks suggests the suspects targeted numerous victims. Police are continuing their investigation to determine if additional victims exist and if the suspects committed other crimes.

Final Thoughts

The Somerset fraud case demonstrates how alert bank employees can stop identity theft before money is stolen. Victims should monitor their accounts closely and report unusual activity immediately to their bank.

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