PHILADELPHIA (April 20, 2026) — District Attorney Larry Krasner and the DAO’s Elder Justice Unit announced Monday that charges were held for court against Defendant Patrick Vassor for defrauding a senior out of $13,000 in April 2025.
The following charges for Defendant Patrick Vassor (DOB 01/19/1985) were held for court:
- Conspiracy (F1)
- Dealing in Proceeds of Unlawful Activities (F1)
- Theft by Failure to Make Required Disposition of Funds (F3)
- Theft by Deception (F3)
- Receiving Stolen Property (F3)
- Theft by Unlawful Taking (F3)
In April 2025, Victim Greg Sclight, 72, responded to a text purported to be from his bank asking about a fraudulent transaction. Mr. Sclight received texts and phone calls claiming the FBI required him to move a substantial amount of money to a new account as a part of a “money laundering investigation.” Mr. Sclight deposited $13,000 into a Wells Fargo account from an ATM. Once he realized he had been scammed, Mr. Sclight filed a police report.
The detective investigation showed that Vassor owned and used the account the money was deposited into. In addition, other transactions into that account were also consistent with similar frauds. Additional investigatory work showed other instances of similar frauds had taken place in Vassor’s account. A formal arraignment will be held on April 24, 2026.
“Unfortunately, Mr. Sclight’s experience is not unique,” said District Attorney Larry Krasner. “Scammers, who are becoming highly sophisticated, routinely target elders because they tend to have more assets. This is not about being embarrassed or ashamed — it is about working together to support victims of crime and hold bad actors accountable for their actions. Our office remains deeply committed to protecting senior citizens in Philadelphia.”
“Thank you to Detective Justin Peyton of the Central Detective Division,” said Assistant District Attorney Alex Blumenthal, Supervisor of the DAO’s Elder Justice Unit. “It’s through his exceptional investigation of this financial fraud that this defendant is being brought to justice.”
Victim Statement – Greg Sclight
Being scammed is incredibly difficult. It’s embarrassing, it’s humiliating, and it leaves you unsure of what to do or how to fight back. These scammers are professionals—they work at their craft every single day. You’d be surprised how many people have fallen victim. For many of us, especially those raised in a time when trust came more naturally, this reality is hard to accept. But we have to relearn how to protect ourselves, and that starts with awareness.
I was fortunate to document everything and keep records in real time. Those records became critical tools in my defense. More importantly, I was supported by a public system that was willing to listen and take action. I want to thank the Philadelphia Police Department, especially Detective Payton, for his hard work and persistence in pursuing this case. I also want to thank the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, and ADA Blumenthal, for their diligence and follow-through. This case took over a year to unfold, and it required consistent effort from each of these public servants. Because of them, we are now in a position where justice may finally be served.
The DAO is also announcing related events for National Crime Victims’ Rights Week 2026:
Listen. Act. Advocate. (Panel) — Tuesday, April 21, 2026 from 1-2 pm @ DAO:
A discussion between community-based organization leaders supporting the advocacy work to center victims of crime.
Hotline for Crime Victims — Wednesday April 22, 2026 from 10-4 pm @ DAO:
A live hotline 215-696-8019 for victims to receive resources regarding specific victimization histories.
Philadelphia Coalition for Victim Advocacy Candlelight Vigil — Wednesday April 22, 2026 at 6:30 pm @ The Philadelphia School District: A candlelight vigil to honor victims of crime.
Healing Philly Award Ceremony – Thursday, April 23, 2026 at 3 pm @ the DAO:
An event to honor internal and external advocates for their work in victim services.
Philadelphia Coalition for Victim Advocacy Luncheon Award Ceremony – Friday, April 24, 2026 at 11:30 am @ the DAO: An event to honor citywide advocates for their work in victim services