The Wallis Police Department has filed a felony charge against a man investigators believe is connected to a widespread refund scam that has targeted elderly victims across Texas.
On July 17, Wallis police obtained a felony warrant charging Sumuel Leung with Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity, a serious offense under Texas law. The investigation alleges Leung was part of a group posing as representatives of Amazon and PayPal to defraud victims through a sophisticated computer and banking scam.
According to investigators, victims would receive a phone call claiming they were owed a refund from Amazon or PayPal. The callers would persuade victims to allow remote access to their computers, where the scammers allegedly manipulated online banking screens to make it appear that an excessive refund—often between $30,000 and $50,000 instead of the intended $30 to $50—had been mistakenly deposited into their accounts.
The suspects would then claim the overpayment was an error and pressure victims into withdrawing the supposed excess funds from their bank accounts. Victims were instructed to hand over the cash during meetings at their homes or in public locations. In many cases, investigators said the victims did not realize they had been scammed until they later reviewed their actual bank account records.
Wallis police believe the group has carried out the scheme across Texas on an almost daily basis, with reported losses exceeding $65,000 in individual cases.
The investigation began after a victim within the Wallis city limits reported the scam. Police said they were able to identify a suspect through the use of Flock Safety license plate camera technology and the cooperation of the victim. Investigators have since worked with multiple law enforcement agencies across the state as the investigation continues.
Police said the individuals involved in this particular scam have primarily been of Asian descent but emphasized that scams can be committed by people of any background and residents should remain alert regardless of who contacts them.
Investigators also allege Leung lived an affluent lifestyle, residing in expensive homes and driving luxury vehicles despite having no known legitimate employment.
Wallis police said Leung was released from jail after posting a $100,000 bond.
The charge of Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity carries penalties that vary depending on the underlying criminal conduct and the value of the property involved. In cases involving large-scale financial fraud, the offense can be prosecuted as a first-degree felony, punishable by five to 99 years or life in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 if convicted.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges or arrests may be possible.
As with all criminal cases, the charge against Leung is an allegation. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Wallis police are reminding the public to remain vigilant against refund scams. Legitimate companies such as Amazon, PayPal and financial institutions will never ask customers to provide remote access to their computers or withdraw cash to correct an alleged overpayment.
Authorities urge residents to talk with elderly family members about these scams, as older adults continue to be among the most frequently targeted victims.
