Hingham 'Psychic' Allegedly Scams Elderly Woman

A woman was arrested Saturday with allegedly stealing more than $7,000 from an elderly woman in what police are calling a “psychic reading scam."

The incident began when the victim, a 69-year-old Pembroke woman, made several visits in early April to a psychic and card reading business at 49 Whiting St. During these visits the psychic elicited information about the victim and her family members, according to a press release issued from the Hingham Police Department

On the last visit the psychic allegedly told the victim there a “curse and a black cloud” over her and it in order to lift it, she would need to pay $16,000 and if she did not, a relative would commit suicide. She was also told to give a piece of jewelry to the psychic, according to police.

The victim returned and gave the psychic an antique ring and a check for $7,000.

The victim was unable to pay the remaining $9,000 and told her family last week, who immediately contacted the police.

The Hingham Police Department obtained an arrest warrant for the psychic, who was arrested at the home/business on Saturday, April 14, according to the police.

Tiffany Crystal Smith, age 24, of 49 Whiting St., Hingham was charged with Larceny Over $250 (two counts), Larceny Over $250 By False Pretenses, Larceny from a Person over 65, and Conspiracy. Smith uses the name “Sophie” at her business. She is the business owner.

Smith is currently being held on bail at the Hingham Police station and will be arraigned at Hingham District Court on Tuesday, April 17, 2012.

If anyone has information about any similar cases involving this business or Smith please contact Detective Robert Mansfield at 781-749-1212 or leave information at the Drop-A-Dime link on their website (www.hpd.org).