Contact 6: Couple loses life savings through inheritance scam

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- FOX6's Contact 6 is issuing a warning about a scam targeting those who believe they are owed an inheritance.

Pamela Peddie's husband Harry received a life-changing email while she was away caring for her six parents.

"He told me a wonderful thing had happened while I was gone. We wouldn`t have to worry about money anymore. My husband had been on the computer and got a letter saying he had inherited money from a relative who had died," Peddie said.

They would get $8 million. All he needed to do was pay a fee to get the inheritance.

"The scam started. That started the loss of everything we own," Peddie said.

After the first payment, the con men came up with excuses for why they needed more money. Eventually, the Peddie's sent almost a half-million dollars: their retirement and life savings.

"My husband lost his life. His spirit is broken. He sits in his robe all day," Peddie said.

"I personally interviewed the doctor and his wife and this story was heartbreaking," U.S. Postal Inspector Michael Desroisres said.

Postal inspectors say the scam is all too common. They began working the case and along with authorities abroad, were able to extradite and convict the suspects. Inspectors say all consumers need to remember is:

"Before you send money, check, credit card number be sure you trust where it is going because if it is a scam, you will never see that money again," Desroisres said.

Despite what has happened, the Peddie's try to remain optimistic.

"It's not easy, but they have not broken my spirit," Peddie said.