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The Express Gazette
Thursday, October 1, 2026

Salt Lake City Man Dubbed 'SLC Scammer Guy' for Elaborate Cash Schemes

An unidentified man has become a local fixture in downtown Salt Lake City, engaging residents with a fabricated story in exchange for money.

US Politics • 2 hours ago
Salt Lake City Man Dubbed 'SLC Scammer Guy' for Elaborate Cash Schemes

A man, described as striking and often dressed in an all-black outfit with sunglasses, has become a notable figure in Salt Lake City, Utah, for his persistent approach to soliciting money from unsuspecting individuals. He has been informally dubbed the 'SLC Scammer Guy' by residents who allege he employs a consistent narrative to elicit cash.

The man reportedly approaches people, claiming to have just arrived from Europe and to have been abandoned by his brother. He then states that he possesses only euros and urgently needs U.S. dollars to pay for a taxi.

Local reports indicate that the man speaks with an accent and has been successful in convincing people to part with money, with some transactions reportedly amounting to $40 per person. Dylan Chavez, co-founder of SLC Scoop, a local digital media platform, observed that the man's story is a common one: "I'm just this kid, this student that came back from Europe and I have no cash to take home."

Some businesses in the downtown area have reportedly had to ban the man due to his disruptive behavior towards patrons and staff. One local, J Drago, witnessed the man receive money and then purchase food, noting that while he is a paying customer, the funds are "ill-gotten gains."

Sam Stillman recounted an experience where her date gave the man $40, an act that initially seemed generous until she learned of his alleged scam. After encountering posts about him online, Stillman confronted the man herself. She stated that he initially denied the accusations but that she has seen multiple witness accounts confirming his actions.

Stillman also believes the man thrives on the attention, stating, "He knows he's going viral about it, and he doesn't even care."

The Salt Lake City Police Department is aware of the man's activities but has stated that no victims have officially come forward with complaints. He has not been accused of any crime.


Sources