Whatcom Sheriff’s office seeks other possible victims to ongoing fraud
By Staff on May 23, 2025 1:10pm
WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office issued a detailed press release today, Friday, May 23, 2025, saying they have arrested a California man on suspicion of 1st-degree theft after investigating a reported fraud that cost the victim $100,000. They are concerned there may be other victims.
On May 15, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) detectives received a report of an ongoing fraud that started in mid-April 2025. The victim, a local community member, reported a loss of over $100,000.
The victim reported receiving a call from someone claiming to be Officer “Daniel Lucas” from the Federal Office of the Inspector General. The caller discussed a supposed investigation involving money laundering and drug trafficking, mentioning the individual’s name. “Lucas” said the victim needed to speak with his partner, “David Freeman,” to resolve the matter.
“Freeman” contacted the victim and convinced them he was a “federal agent”, providing a photo of his (fake) badge and credentials. “Freeman” told the victim they were a victim of fraud and needed to remove money from their bank account and deposit it into a federal reserve located in Seattle to keep it safe. The victim was told not to speak about this to anyone, notify law enforcement, or research him or his partner. They were instructed to check in with “Freeman” every morning and every night and answer his phone calls. “Freeman” instructed that he would send “agents” to collect the money or gold on different days. This happened on three occasions. Each time a different individual collected the cash or gold.
Advertisement Click for more information
Advertisement Click for more information
WCSO Detectives established probable cause for Theft 1st due to the fact the victim was at a loss of over $100,000.
“Freeman” contacted the victim again for a fourth pick-up. Detectives observed a male pick up a package and flee the area at a high rate of speed. His apprehension was made possible through the coordinated efforts of multiple agencies including Skagit County Interlocal Drug Enforcement, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air Unit, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Homeland Security Investigations and the Whatcom Regional Drug Task Force. The male, identified as 55-year-old Xiaobin Zhou of California, was transported and booked into the Whatcom County Jail.
Zhou is believed to be involved with an organization committing fraud totaling several million dollars. This scheme is prevalent throughout the country, targeting seniors. A Google search of the image of fake credentials shows the same image being used in scams across the country.
This is an active investigation. No other information will be released at this time.
Advertisement Click for more information
Advertisement Click for more information
It’s important to know that law enforcement will never contact individuals to ask for funds or valuables. Even if credentials appear authentic, verify any request by contacting the agency directly. If you are told over the phone that you are facing federal charges, please reach out to your local law enforcement agency. Don’t fall victim to scams. Stay safe and stay informed.
If you believe you or someone you know has been a victim of this scam, please call the non-emergency line at 360-676-6911.
– Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (May 23, 2025)
As of today, Zhou remains in custody pending being able to post a $500,000 bond or cash bail.
