Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Arrests Two Plano Residents for Elder Exploitation

SULPHUR SPRINGS, TEXAS – On Monday, August 18, 2025, the Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office began investigating a case involving the financial exploitation of an elderly victim who had been scammed out of a substantial amount of money. The suspects allegedly convinced the victim that his financial accounts had been hacked and that he needed to provide money to a “courier” as part of a fake FTD insurance arrangement.

The investigation, led by Investigator Richard Brantley, uncovered a scheme involving two Chinese nationals living in Plano, Texas. On Thursday, August 28, 2025, with the assistance of Chief Investigator Russell, Investigator Shea Shaw, Investigator Chris Baumann, and the Plano Police Department, a search warrant was executed at the suspects’ residence in Plano.

During the search, investigators recovered multiple pieces of evidence connecting the suspects to the exploitation scheme. Additionally, they located more than 4 grams (but less than 200 grams) of suspected ketamine, a controlled substance.

Two individuals were taken into custody and charged with exploitation of the elderly and disabled:

• Chih Hao Chang – Male
• Fujie Shi – Male

“This case is a stark reminder of the sophisticated tactics criminals use to prey on vulnerable members of our community,” stated Sheriff Lewis Tatum. “We urge everyone to remain vigilant. If someone asks you for money and you’re not absolutely certain about it, contact local law enforcement or your financial institution immediately.”

The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office reaffirmed its commitment to protecting residents from scams and financial exploitation.

For more updates on arrests and public safety in the region, stay connected with Hunt County Theft Reports.