Police Blotter: Caller Threatens to Pull Man's Fingernails, Teeth if He Doesn't Give Money

A couple who reported a sweepstakes scam Feb. 10 is still being harassed by a caller who now says he will harm them if they don't send him money.

The wife told police Feb. 26 the caller said he would kill her and pull out her husband's fingernails and teeth if they didn't cooperate.

They were one of two Strongsville couples who earlier this month. 

In each case, a caller from Jamaica said they had won a $2.5 million sweepstakes, but had to send money in order to claim their prize.

One couple sent $380 before getting suspicious.

In the other case, the husband gave out some personal information before his wife demanded he stop. They are now being threatened.

"Once these con artists see an opening, they don't let go," Detective Lt. John Janowski said. 

An investigation is continuing.

Explosion Reported

Someone on High Point reported a loud explosion about 7:15 p.m. Feb. 25.

When police arrived, several other neighbors were outside looking for the cause. No explanation for the boom was reported.

Flashing Debris

A motorist called police to say there was a small object with a red flashing light on the side of Valley Parkway about 8 p.m. Feb. 25.

It was, well, a red flashing light. An officer picked it up.

Persistent Solicitor

A man selling services for AT&T went to a Lake Meadows Drive house three times in two days, even though the residents said they weren't interested.

Door Open at Sears

Alarms went off at at about 8:45 p.m. Feb. 24 and mall security found an open door near the auto center.

It appeared to be an oversight rather than a break-in. A manager apparently forgot to lock the door when the store closed at 8 p.m.