A Long Island psychic’s alleged scam reveals a sinister side of fortune-telling, as the suspect is charged under a little-used New York law.
At a Glance
- A 33-year-old astrologer is accused of scamming a 68-year-old woman out of $62,000.
- The scam involved fortune-telling services with demands for large payments.
- Bank staff intervened, preventing further financial loss.
- The accused faces charges under New York’s anti-fortune-telling law.
Fortune-telling Frauds: A Dangerous Game
Fortune-telling scams have plagued urban areas like New York for years, preying on the vulnerable. Hemanth Kumar Muneppa, a 33-year-old astrologer in Hicksville, Long Island, is the latest figure embroiled in controversy. The case unfolded when Muneppa allegedly charged a 68-year-old woman $20,000 for fortune-telling, then demanded an additional $42,000. This brazen act was thwarted by vigilant bank staff who alerted authorities, leading to Muneppa’s arrest before the woman could hand over more money.
This incident occurred at Anjana Ji, a business advertising astrology and “evil spirit removal” services. The case highlights how such scams exploit emotionally fragile individuals, often driven by grief or fear. Despite the prevalence of fortune-telling storefronts, prosecutions are rare, with only 11 formal complaints in New York City over the past 15 years, and just four arrests.
The Arrest and Charges
On July 18, 2025, Nassau County Police arrested Muneppa in a Long Island parking lot. He now faces charges of grand larceny and fortune-telling under New York law, reflecting the seriousness of the allegations. Muneppa’s arraignment was scheduled for the same day in Hempstead, where the legal system will determine his fate. Police continue their investigation, urging other potential victims to step forward, suggesting Muneppa’s actions could be part of a broader pattern of fraud.
The bank staff’s quick thinking not only prevented further financial loss but also underscored the critical role of financial institutions in safeguarding vulnerable clients. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities.
Implications and Broader Effects
The immediate implication of this foiled scam is the protection of the victim from further exploitation. In the long term, the case could lead to increased awareness among potential victims and financial institutions, encouraging greater vigilance against similar scams. This incident might also prompt law enforcement and regulators to reevaluate the enforcement of fortune-telling statutes, which are rarely applied.
The elderly and other vulnerable groups remain at heightened risk for such scams. Additionally, local businesses offering legitimate spiritual services may face increased scrutiny. From an economic perspective, victims suffer direct financial losses, while businesses involved could experience reputational damage.
Expert Opinions and Legal Context
Industry experts liken psychic scams to Ponzi schemes, emphasizing their calculated manipulation of emotionally vulnerable individuals. Legal scholars note the rarity of enforcing fortune-telling laws, partly due to the challenge of distinguishing fraud from protected spiritual practices. Some defenders argue for spiritual or religious exemptions, but authorities draw a clear line when large financial demands are made for services like “curse removal.”
Law enforcement officials stress that these laws exist to protect people from financial exploitation under the guise of spiritual services. The case highlights ongoing challenges in regulating the psychic industry, balancing consumer protection with freedom of belief.
