By Shavonne Walker

shavonne.walker@salisburypost.com

SALISBURY — A local man was duped into believing he had won an $8 million jackpot and could claim it if he paid $395 first, the Salisbury Police Department said.

The 72-year-old man said he was contacted on the phone by someone named Bill who said he’d won money and a Mercedes Benz. The man said he had to pay taxes before the winnings were officially his.

He went to Wal-mart and transfered money via an RIA Transaction, which authorities say is similar to Western Union.

“Bill” told the victim to send the money in the name of Linda Jenkins. The man sent the money but later had doubts about the call. When he searched online for the telephone number, it was listed in Kingston, Jamaica.

The victim called “Bill,” who said he’d send the money back by a certain date.

Police officials say it’s not likely the man’s money will be returned.