Westfield Police Arrest Two Men in Connection with Multi-State Larceny Scheme

Westfield Police have apprehended two individuals suspected of engaging in a sophisticated
multi-state larceny scheme. The investigation, which commenced following a scam targeting a local resident,
has resulted in the arrest of 27-year-old Leslie Pinkerton from White Plains, NY, and 29-year-old Dane
Cooper-Rich from East Orange, NJ.

The initial incident involved the sale of a Rolex watch by the victim, who was subsequently
paid with a counterfeit cashier’s check. It was soon discovered that Pinkerton had employed the same
fraudulent scheme on various victims across Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey.

In a collaborative effort, investigators collaborated with a close acquaintance of the first
victim, who had listed a similar watch for sale. The acquaintance was contacted by Pinkerton, who agreed
to meet at the Westfield Police Department lobby for the purchase.

Following the arrangement, Pinkerton arrived at the police station as planned, where he was
promptly apprehended. Accompanying him was 29-year-old Dane Cooper-Rich, the driver who transported
Pinkerton to the designated meeting point. Cooper-Rich was found to be driving without a valid license
and was subsequently taken into custody.

During a thorough search of the vehicle, authorities discovered oxycodone pills and psilocybin,
commonly known as “magic mushrooms”. These findings led to additional charges being brought against both
Pinkerton and Cooper-Rich, encompassing drug possession and motor vehicle-related offences.

While Pinkerton and Cooper-Rich face a range of serious charges, the Westfield Police have emphasized
the ongoing nature of the investigation. It is possible that further charges will be filed against the
defendants as the inquiry progresses. Additionally, Pinkerton is currently awaiting trial on related charges
in other jurisdictions linked to the broader investigation.