Last week, police detectives arrested Mario Simonte, 34, of Montclair, in connection with a series of scams targeting college students across Southern California, according to the Irvine Police Department.
Simonte approached students near campuses and claimed he urgently needed to borrow cash to return to Italy.
He drove the victims to an ATM to withdraw cash. He handed out illegitimate business cards, counterfeit perfume, and Apple products as a false gesture of good faith, but never reimbursed the victims.
Detectives believe there may be additional victims. Simonte commonly drove a white Maserati SUV or a black 3-series BMW while approaching victims.
If you have experienced a similar incident involving Simonte, please contact Investigator Bennett at tbennett@cityofirvine.org.
Likely Charges
- Grand Theft – For taking large sums of money under false pretenses.
- Fraud – Engaging in deceptive practices to obtain funds.
- False Pretenses – Misrepresenting his situation (claiming he needed money to return to Italy).
- Identity Theft or Forgery (possible) – If counterfeit Apple products or fake business cards were used to mislead victims.
- Conspiracy – If investigators find evidence of accomplices.
- Additional Enhancements – Charges could be elevated if multiple victims or high-value losses are confirmed.