Kewanee Police, in collaboration with several law enforcement agencies, have apprehended Shrey Patel, 23, of Carol Stream, in connection with a financial scam that targeted a local elderly resident.
An elderly resident in Kewanee fell victim to a scam after individuals posing as U.S. Department of the Treasury agents warned her that her bank accounts were at risk and threatened criminal charges. Acting on their instructions, she withdrew a significant amount of money and handed it over before the police became involved. Police in Kewanee were alerted by Peoples National Bank on October 14, 2025, after staff noticed suspected scam activity involving an elderly customer. Although this incident mirrored a previous fraudulent withdrawal at another bank, the quick action of employees helped prevent further loss. Officers worked closely with the victim and bank staff to gather essential information. In a planned operation the following day, law enforcement set up a controlled delivery of funds, aiming to catch the perpetrators in the act. This effort resulted in the arrest of a suspect named Patel, shining a spotlight on local tactics to combat financial scams targeting seniors.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant, especially when approached with unsolicited financial requests, and to report any suspicious activity to local authorities as efforts continue to uncover the full scope of the scam. The investigation is ongoing, as detectives believe multiple subjects are involved in the scam. Kewanee Police will continue partnering with other agencies to capture all persons involved with this scam.
According to a press release, “The Kewanee Police Department wishes to thank Peoples National Bank for their alertness and cooperation in this case. Bank staff promptly recognized the signs of potential fraud and took immediate action by contacting law enforcement and helping convince the victim that she was being targeted by a scam. Their quick response played a crucial role in preventing further financial loss and assisting with the ongoing investigation.” We have reached out to Peoples National Bank for a statement.
Shrey Patel is charged with Theft by Deception (Class 2 Felony). A Preliminary Hearing is scheduled for October 20, 2025, at 1 PM.
Kewanee Police remind residents, “The Kewanee Police Department reminds the public to be vigilant against scams of this nature. Government agencies such as the U.S. Treasury or IRS will never contact individuals by phone or email to demand money, threaten arrest, or request that funds be withdrawn or transferred. If you receive a suspicious call or message, do not provide personal information or make any financial transactions. Instead, contact your local law enforcement agency or a trusted financial institution for verification.”
