Augusta Woman Charged in Fake Bond Scam Targeting Families

AUGUSTA, Georgia – A Georgia woman has been arrested in connection with a scam in which suspects allegedly posed as law enforcement and court officials to steal money from victims.

The investigation began on January 17, 2026, after authorities received reports of individuals falsely claiming to be affiliated with law enforcement agencies, court personnel, and bonding companies.

In one case, a Richmond County resident was contacted by a caller claiming a family member had been jailed. The caller instructed the victim to send bond money through Cash App, which investigators later confirmed was fraudulent.

During the investigation, authorities identified 31-year-old Shalieva Breann Hennings of Augusta as a suspect. Officials believe she may be connected to a larger group carrying out similar scams.

Hennings was arrested and charged with felony theft by deception. She was transported to the Charles B. Webster Detention Center.

The investigation remains ongoing, and officials say additional details are not being released at this time.

The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never request bond payments over the phone or through apps like Cash App, Venmo, or PayPal.

Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or victimized is encouraged to contact the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division.