MIDLAND COUNTY, MI — A 44-year-old California woman is being charged for allegedly scamming two Midland County residents out of more than $100,000 total.
Yahui Zhu was arraigned on Tuesday, Jan. 20 in Midland County’s 75th District Court on one count of false pretenses $20,000 or more, according to court records.
The Michigan State Police Tri-City Post began investigating Zhu on Dec. 26, 2025.
A preliminary investigation revealed that her actions led to an 82-year-old man and a 74-year-old woman being victims of gift card, cryptocurrency and additional fraudulent scams that resulted in more than $100,000 in losses.
During their investigation, troopers were able to intercept Zhu, as she attempted to allegedly meet the victims at their residence.
By intercepting Zhu, troopers were able to and prevent an in-person cash exchange.
“We are seeing this type of fraudulent activity throughout the state,” MSP said in a statement. “Thankfully, our troopers were able to intercept the courier and prevent future financial loss.”
Zhu, who was arrested on Jan. 16, was issued a $500,000 cash or surety bond. She is scheduled to appear in court again on Feb. 3 for a probable cause conference.
The Michigan State Police issued a reminder to all residents that the Federal Trade Commission will never threaten you, tell you to transfer money to protect it, or instruct you to withdraw cash or buy gold and give it to someone.
Anyone attempting to say they are with the FTC who is trying to do this is conducting a scam, police said. Scams can be reported to reportfraud.ftc.gov.