The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has expanded its ability to assist victims of financial fraud across the United States through a partnership with Asset Reality, a digital asset management and recovery platform. This technology enhances the Sheriff’s Office’s ability to identify, track, and recover funds lost through increasingly sophisticated fraud schemes.
Financial fraud investigations frequently extend beyond Colorado’s borders, with detectives often identifying additional victims while pursuing original cases. By coordinating with law enforcement agencies nationwide and utilizing advanced digital asset recovery tools, investigators have strengthened their ability to trace illicit funds and return money to victims.
Since implementing Asset Reality’s digital asset recovery capabilities in 2026, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has recovered nearly $147,000 for six victims of crypto-fraud schemes located in Colorado and across the United States. The scheme types include romance, lottery, investment, suspicious bank activity, pop-up scams, and warrant.
In addition, deputies have seized approximately $24,500 connected to multiple fraudulent operations.
“Financial fraud investigations are among the most complex and time-consuming cases our detectives handle,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “These investigations require persistence, attention to detail, and strong partnerships across jurisdictions. I am incredibly proud of our detectives for their dedication to following every lead, recovering stolen assets, and helping victims rebuild after these crimes. Their work sends a clear message that the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office will relentlessly pursue those who exploit others for financial gain.”
Fraud schemes continue to evolve, making public awareness one of the most effective tools for preventing victimization. The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office encourages community members to remain cautious when receiving unsolicited phone calls, text messages, emails, or online communications requesting money, personal information, or digital asset transfers.
Common fraud prevention tips include:
- Never send money, cryptocurrency, or gift cards to someone you have not personally verified.
- Be skeptical of unsolicited calls or messages claiming to be from government agencies, financial institutions, or technical support services.
- Verify requests for payment by contacting the organization directly using a trusted phone number or official website.
- Never allow unknown individuals remote access to your computer or electronic devices.
- Never download apps prompted by text messages or emails.
- Discuss suspicious requests with a trusted family member, friend, or your local law enforcement agency before taking action.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted by a fraud scheme is encouraged to contact their local law enforcement agency as soon as possible. Prompt reporting can improve investigators’ ability to identify suspects, preserve evidence, and increase the likelihood of recovering stolen assets.
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting the community, investigating financial crimes, and pursuing every available opportunity to recover assets for victims. Partnerships with innovative technology providers and continued collaboration with law enforcement agencies across the country strengthen the Office’s ability to combat fraud and deliver justice to those affected.