Legal Definitions - bunco steerer

A bunco steerer is an individual who uses elaborate tricks, deceptive schemes, or other fraudulent means to swindle people out of their money or property. This person often plays a crucial role in luring or "steering" unsuspecting victims into a situation designed to defraud them, making them believe they are engaging in a legitimate or beneficial transaction.

• Example 1: The Fake Charity Collector

  Imagine a person who sets up a convincing but entirely fake charity website and social media presence, claiming to raise funds for a noble cause, such as helping disaster victims. This individual then actively reaches out to potential donors through email campaigns and direct messages, sharing fabricated stories and images to evoke sympathy. They meticulously guide donors through the process of making online payments, assuring them of the charity's legitimacy. Once the donations are received, the money is simply pocketed, and no aid is ever provided.

  Explanation: The individual operating the fake charity acts as a bunco steerer by creating a deceptive front and then actively "steering" compassionate donors towards making payments under false pretenses, ultimately defrauding them of their money.

• Example 2: The Phony Prize Notification

  Consider a scenario where an individual receives an official-looking letter or email congratulating them on winning a substantial lottery prize or sweepstakes. The communication instructs them to contact a specific "claims agent" to process their winnings. When the individual calls, the "claims agent" (the bunco steerer) explains that a small "processing fee" or "tax" must be paid upfront before the large prize can be released. The agent then guides the victim through various payment methods, such as wire transfers or gift cards, ensuring the money is sent before the victim realizes there is no prize.

  Explanation: The "claims agent" is the bunco steerer, using the lure of a large prize to deceive the victim and "steer" them into paying a fraudulent fee, thereby stealing their money.

• Example 3: The Rental Property Scam

  A person posts an attractive advertisement online for a rental apartment in a desirable location at an unusually low price. When interested individuals inquire, the advertiser (the bunco steerer) claims to be out of the country but eager to rent the property quickly. They send convincing photos and a fake lease agreement, then insist that potential renters send a security deposit and first month's rent via an untraceable money transfer service to secure the apartment without a physical viewing. Once the money is sent, the advertiser disappears, and the victim discovers the apartment was never available for rent or doesn't even exist.

  Explanation: The advertiser acts as a bunco steerer by creating a fictitious rental opportunity and then "steering" prospective tenants into making payments for a property they will never occupy, defrauding them of their funds.