Crossville, TN – The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office has arrested two individuals in connection with a sophisticated PayPal scam that targeted a local resident in the Vandever community. The arrests were made following a coordinated sting operation, after authorities received information from the Newnan, Georgia Police Department about a potential scam victim in the area.

Upon investigation, Cumberland County deputies made contact with the victim, who reported that scammers had gained remote access to his computer and bank accounts under the guise of a PayPal-related issue. The victim was manipulated into withdrawing large sums of cash and delivering the money to couriers at the direction of the scammers—occurring on five separate occasions, including two in which money was picked up directly from the victim’s home.

The victim had planned to withdraw $70,000 in cash to fulfill another demand from the scammers. In response, the Sheriff’s Office initiated a controlled operation, during which investigators provided the victim with a decoy package to deliver. The scammers remained on the phone with the victim throughout the setup and instructed that a password be exchanged to verify the handoff.

During the operation, investigators observed the suspects conducting counter-surveillance before finally approaching and accepting the decoy package. Officers immediately moved in and took the suspects into custody.

Arrested from the incident is Hongqi Cui and Li Muxi, both of whom list residences in California on 39-14-103 Theft of Property, 39-16-603 Evading Arrest, and 39-16-602 Resisting Arrest. Both suspects are currently incarcerated in the Cumberland County Jail under a $305,000.00 bond awaiting a June 9, 2025, court date.

A search of the suspect vehicle, conducted via search warrant, uncovered a torn envelope bearing the name of another potential victim, along with $16,000 in U.S. currency concealed in a hidden trunk compartment. Investigators believe this money may belong to another scam victim.

This case remains under active investigation in cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office urges the public to remain vigilant and cautious when dealing with unsolicited financial requests, especially those involving remote computer access or demands for cash.

If you or someone you know has been contacted by a scammer or feels pressured to send money, please contact the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office or your local law enforcement agency immediately.