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Deputies are looking for additional victims who may have bought fake diamonds, gems, and gold jewelry.
Beginning in February 2018, Washington County Sheriff's Office deputies serving the City of Cornelius began investigating a scam involving a woman who was selling fake diamonds, gemstones, and gold jewelry through Facebook. Deputies learned 31-year-old Amber Schmidt, of Cornelius, was using a Facebook page called "Never Ending Treasures" to advertise jewelry for sale.
Ms. Schmidt would meet her victims and use fake gold and diamond testers to trick buyers into thinking the items were genuine. Deputies have identified seven victims so far, including one case investigated by the Hillsboro Police Department.
During the investigation, Ms. Schmidt was arrested on February 17 for theft in the first degree. While she was still in custody, deputies charged Ms. Schmidt on February 19 with a second count of theft in the first degree. Ms. Schmidt was released from jail, and on March 16 a grand jury indicted her on four additional counts of theft in the first degree and two counts of theft in the second degree. Ms. Schmidt was arrested for those charges on March 19 and charged with an additional count of theft in the third degree. Her bail is currently set at $4,750.
Detectives are concerned there may be additional victims who may not be aware Ms. Schmidt sold them fake jewelry or gemstones. Anyone with information about these cases or additional victims can call (503) 846-2500. There is one victim willing to speak with the media by phone; please call the PIO for that contact information.