Woman Accused of Reporting Fake Bank Robbery to Hide Fraud

VIENNA, Va. -- A Fairfax woman staged a bank robbery to cover up her embezzlement at the bank, according to Vienna police.

Mekeda Smith-El, 26, was arrested Friday, police said.

On Jan. 28, Smith-El reported an armed robbery at a Wachovia Bank in the 200 block of Maple Avenue. Police later learned Smith-El reported the fake bank robbery to stage a cover-up of her alleged embezzlement, officials said.

She is charged with three counts of embezzlement and one count of solicitation to commit a felony.

Police haven't recovered the money and say officers are still investigating.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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