Suspected Scam Artist Arrested In East Providence

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — Police have arrested an East Providence man charged with falsely arranging vacations to Aruba and taking their money under false pretenses. Anthony DeBarros, 57, is charged with obtaining money under false pretenses and unlawful appropriation.

According to police, DeBarros made the false vacation arrangements for 58 people, who each paid him $1,000 for the trip. As the vacation date neared, no one received an itinerary from DeBarros, and he would not return their phone calls, police say.

Police began investigating DeBarros after several people reported they were potentially scammed. According to police, DeBarros did not book the vacations as he had to the customers, and he had no intention of booking them. DeBarros told police that he used the money to pay bills and make purchases for his own good, police say.

DeBarros was arrested on a warrant on Saturday. The investigation into this case is ongoing, and many more victims are still filing complaints. DeBarros could face additional charges, according to police.

Anyone who believes they might be a victim of this scam is asked to contact the East Providence Police Department at 401-435-7600.