A Warren man who posed as a computer security representative to defraud a Waterford senior citizen has been sentenced to multiple felony counts in Oakland County Circuit Court, concluding a case that began earlier this year when authorities uncovered a months-long scam targeting the 70-year-old victim.
A Months-Long Scheme Unravels
According to the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office, 49-year-old Mohammad Gazi repeatedly contacted the victim while pretending to be a representative from McAfee Computer Security. He claimed that money had been “mistakenly deposited” into her bank account, then directed her to withdraw cash and hand it over to him on three separate occasions.
The victim ultimately turned over more than $40,000 before growing suspicious after a fourth contact. She reached out to police, and investigators launched a sting operation that resulted in Gazi’s arrest.
Prosecutor: “Scammers Exploit Trust and Goodwill”
Prosecutor Karen McDonald emphasized that the case reflects a broader pattern of criminals preying on seniors.
“Scammers attempt to exploit people’s trust and goodwill, especially seniors,” McDonald said at the time Gazi was originally charged. “I encourage everyone to be cautious of unsolicited calls or texts that seem suspicious. Trust your gut and never give away personal information to unverified callers. If you’re unsure, call the police.”
Sentencing Details
Court records from November 13, 2025 show Gazi was sentenced after entering no-contest pleas to multiple felonies. The key terms include:
- False Pretenses ($20,000 or More):
Minimum: 3 years
Maximum: 15 years - Using a Computer to Commit a Crime (Two Counts):
Minimum: 17 months and 23 months on the respective counts
Maximum: 7 years and 10 years - Attempted False Pretenses ($20,000 or More):
Minimum: 189 days
Maximum: 0 years
All sentences run concurrently, beginning November 13, 2025. Gazi also received 189 days credit.
Financial Penalties and Restrictions
Gazi must pay $26,000 in restitution, as ordered by the court. Additional obligations include:
- $130 victim rights fee
- $272 state minimum cost
- DNA already on file
- No contact with the victim
Case Reminder
False Pretenses $20,000 or More is punishable by up to 15 years in prison or three times the value of the property involved. Using a computer to commit a crime carries potential penalties of up to 10 years. Attempted false pretenses is punishable by up to five years.
Charges are accusations until proven guilty, but sentencing is now finalized.
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