Zelle Transfers Turn Felony Charges: Lexington Park Woman Faces Charges After Alleged $21K Theft Scheme

LEXINGTON PARK, Md. — What began as unexplained withdrawals from a personal bank account has led to felony theft charges after investigators alleged that nearly 90 unauthorized digital transfers were made over several months, totaling more than $21,000.

According to police documents, a fraud victim contacted the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office to report that Latoya Nicole Sewell, 43, of Lexington Park, had allegedly accessed his bank account without permission and transferred money to herself. The victim reported that the unauthorized activity began in May 2025.

Investigators contacted the victim’s financial institution as part of the inquiry. Police allege that bank records showed approximately 90 separate Zelle transactions between the victim’s account and an account associated with Sewell.

According to police, the transactions collectively totaled $21,347. The victim told investigators that none of the transfers were authorized and that Sewell did not have permission to access or use his bank account. Authorities documented the reported transactions as part of an ongoing theft investigation.

Sewell has been charged with theft scheme, $1,500 to less than $25,000, and theft, $100 to under $1,500. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Feb. 20, 2026, according to court records.

Under Maryland law, a theft scheme involving property or services valued between $1,500 and less than $25,000 is classified as a felony and carries a maximum penalty of up to 10 years of incarceration and/or a fine of up to $10,000. Theft involving property valued between $100 and under $1,500 is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 18 months of incarceration and/or a fine of up to $500.

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