Scams in Wisconsin are not just costing victims their life savings—they are also leading to devastating consequences, including loss of life. Recent cases highlight how scammers are preying on vulnerable residents, manipulating emotions, and pushing some to the brink of despair. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones.
The Rise of Deadly Scams in Wisconsin
Scams in Wisconsin have become increasingly sophisticated, targeting people of all ages and backgrounds. From sextortion schemes targeting teenagers to romance scams deceiving adults, the emotional and financial toll can be catastrophic.
Sextortion: A Hidden Threat to Teens
A tragic example is the case of Bradyn Bohn, a 15-year-old from Kronenwetter, Wisconsin. Bradyn died by suicide after falling victim to a sextortion scam—a crime where perpetrators coerce victims, often teen boys, into sending compromising photos and then blackmail them for money. The scammers’ relentless threats and demands drove Bradyn to take his own life just hours after the extortion began.
Sextortion is on the rise nationally. The FBI has reported a significant increase in these cases, with at least 20 suicides linked to online financial sextortion in less than two years. In response, Wisconsin lawmakers have introduced “Bradyn’s Law,” which would make sextortion a standalone crime with severe penalties, including the possibility of felony murder charges if the crime leads to suicide.
Romance Scams: Financial Ruin and Emotional Trauma
Adults are not immune. Romance scams have devastated lives across Wisconsin. One woman lost over $500,000 to a scammer she met online, mortgaging her home and taking out loans on her cars. The manipulation went on for months, leaving her financially ruined and emotionally broken. At her lowest point, she contemplated suicide.
Romance scammers are skilled manipulators, often operating from overseas and using elaborate stories to build trust and urgency. Victims are frequently too embarrassed to report these crimes, with only about 55% coming forward to law enforcement.
Elderly Scams: Targeting Wisconsin’s Seniors
Authorities in Brown and Outagamie counties have reported a surge in scams targeting elderly residents. These scams range from fake security alerts to imposters posing as relatives in distress. Victims have lost tens of thousands of dollars, often handing over cash to couriers sent directly to their homes.
Detectives warn that legitimate banks or law enforcement agencies will never ask for cash payments or send someone to collect money at your door. The emotional manipulation involved in these scams can leave victims feeling isolated, ashamed, and vulnerable.
How to Protect Yourself and Others
- Recognize the Warning Signs
- Unsolicited requests for money, especially from online contacts or supposed officials
- Pressure to act quickly or keep the interaction secret
- Requests for explicit photos or personal information
- Threats of exposure, violence, or legal trouble if demands aren’t met
Take Action
- Never send money or share sensitive information with someone you haven’t met in person and verified
- Talk to a trusted friend or family member before making financial decisions under pressure
- Report suspicious activity immediately to local law enforcement or the FBI
Support for Victims
If you or someone you know has been affected by a scam, know that you are not alone. Reach out for help—law enforcement, counselors, and support groups can provide assistance and guidance.
Conclusion
Scams in Wisconsin are more than just financial crimes—they can shatter lives and, in the worst cases, lead to death. Increased awareness, open conversations, and swift reporting are crucial to stopping these predators. Protect yourself and your loved ones by staying informed and vigilant.
Sources:-
[1] https://wausaupilotandreview.com/2025/03/13/d-c-everest-teens-death-after-online-scam-prompts-mothers-call-for-awareness-justice/
[2] https://fox11online.com/news/local/northeast-wi-law-enforcement-offers-warning-about-bulk-money-scam-brown-county-sheriffs-office-outagamie-county-sheriffs-office-ashwaubenon-public-safety-de-pere-police-department-courier
[3] https://www.wpr.org/news/15-bradyn-bohn-brittney-bird-suicide-sextortion-mom-wants-protect-kids
[4] https://spectrumlocalnews.com/mega-menus/tx/news/2025/05/12/wisconsinite-impacted-by-romance-scam
[5] https://www.dailycardinal.com/article/2025/04/bradyns-law-introduced-after-15-year-old-died-by-suicide-as-result-of-sextortion-scheme
[6] https://spectrumnews1.com/wi/milwaukee/news/2025/05/12/wisconsinite-impacted-by-romance-scam
[7] https://www.yahoo.com/news/wisconsin-officials-scams-rise-may-020121084.html
[8] https://www.yahoo.com/news/wisconsin-officials-scams-rise-may-031620300.html
[9] https://www.co.walworth.wi.us/1038/Money-Mule-Scam
[10] https://www.justice.gov/usao-edwi/pr/new-york-city-resident-sentenced-prison-defrauding-wisconsin-residents-professional