The $150K Inside Job – 2 Employees Charged in Massive Texarkana Payday Loan Fraud

After a year-long investigation, two women are facing some serious charges and three additional suspects remain wanted in connection with a large-scale fraud case, according to the Texarkana Texas, Police Department.

Trina Porter, 48, and LaShay Washington, 43, were arrested on charges of Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity following an extensive investigation led by Detective Jarrod Dean. This case centers on fraudulent activity at a payday loan business where both women worked.

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The investigators say the women used forged documents and personal information belonging to people they knew to create fraudulent loans. They ended up stealing more than $150,000 from the business in a 12 month period.

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Authorities have identified 199 victims during the investigation. The case file ultimately grew to include more than 300 pieces of evidence, which were carefully collected and documented. Detective Dean also worked closely with the company’s corporate auditor to determine the full scope of the operation.

Both women were issued bonds set at $150,000. Porter has since been released on bond, while Washington remains in the Bi-State Jail.

Texarkana Texas Police praised Detective Dean’s diligence and persistence throughout the complex investigation, noting his work helped ensure those responsible were identified and held accountable.