Palm Springs Police in Riverside County, California, recently busted a scam where individuals falsely claimed a child had died to solicit funeral funds from motorists. Two suspects from Redlands were arrested after investigators confirmed the child in their photos was alive.
Scam Details
On Wednesday, January 28, 2026, scammers held signs and photos at the intersection of Ramon Road and San Luis Rey Drive, approaching drivers with emotional pleas for money. Police noted this tactic often uses stolen images from charities or the internet and warned against giving cash to roadside solicitors, especially those stepping into traffic.
Arrests and Charges
Sebastian Brown and Adrian Martinez face charges of obtaining money by false pretenses and conspiracy to commit a crime. At least three people were involved initially, but only these two from Redlands were arrested; bail details were unavailable.
Police urged calling their non-emergency line (760-327-1441) for similar activity, emphasizing the dangers and fraudulence of such operations.
