PORTLAND, Ore. — On Monday, the Washington County Sherriff's Office (WCSO) confirmed that two people were arrested, cited, charged on March 26 and has since been released in connection to an attempted jewelry scam on Highway 219.
WCSO identified the two people as Marcel Radu, 30, who is facing a charge of criminal conspiracy, and Alexandru Vaduva, 28, is facing charges of unlawful entry in a motor vehicle and disorderly conduct.
Mark Lewis wanted to do the right thing when he saw what looked like a motorist in trouble on Highway 219 in Washington County.
On Monday afternoon, Lewis was driving in his work vehicle with a passenger.
“We saw a guy with the driver’s door open, shaking. He got in the road, started waving us down. We pulled off right in front of him,” Lewis recalled.
They were getting ready to get out to see if they could help when "things got wild," according to Lewis.
“The guy who flagged us down walked up the passenger side and immediately opened the door, leaning in, had his hand my apprentice’s leg,” Lewis said.
The man told a story of being a millionaire from Dubai and needing money to help a family member, then offered jewelry for cash. It’s a scenario that’s been seen across the country, in which individuals attempt to sell fake jewelry and watches on the highways and onramps in Washington County, according to the Washington County Sheriff's Office.
Lewis said he knew he needed to get away. As he drove away, the black Mercedes SUV with California plates followed him.
“Terrified,” said Lewis. “I’m not afraid to admit it. Thought, 'We have to get home.'”
Eventually, the SUV left them. Lewis was shaken by the incident but says he'd still like to help people in need, though he added that he'll be more cautious.
The Washington County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident.
The agency said they've had several reports of similar incidents in the last two weeks and discourage people from stopping and interacting with strangers, especially on freeways and onramps. Community members who have fallen victim to this scam are encouraged to report by calling the non-emergency line at 503-629-0111.