South Carolina Man Arrested in Athens Catfishing Scheme as Police Identify More Victims

ATHENS, Ga. – Athens-Clarke County police are warning that there could be additional victims of an online catfishing scheme after investigators arrested a South Carolina man accused of using fake photographs and identities to defraud people.

Caleb Mills of South Carolina was arrested July 20 on a charge of identity fraud and other fraud-related offenses, according to the Athens-Clarke County Police Department.

Police said Mills is accused of using fictitious photographs and identities as part of a catfishing operation targeting people online.

As detectives continued investigating after Mills’ arrest, they identified additional victims, prompting the department to issue a community alert.

Authorities have not disclosed how many victims have been identified, how much money may have been lost or what online platforms were allegedly used in the scheme.

Police also have not released details about how Mills is accused of convincing victims to provide money or other items.

The department is urging people to be cautious when developing relationships with people they have never met in person, particularly when someone begins requesting money, gifts or other valuables.

Investigators also warned that artificial intelligence and other developing technology can make fraudulent online identities and catfishing schemes increasingly difficult to recognize.

Anyone who believes they may have been victimized in connection with the investigation is encouraged to file a report with the Athens-Clarke County Police Department.

Anyone with information about the case can contact Sgt. Nathaniel Franco at 762-400-7100 or Nathaniel.Franco@accgov.com.