Andrew Leavitt, Ph.D. Chancellor | Official website
Andrew Leavitt, Ph.D. Chancellor | Official website
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh student Abigail "Abi" Thede is making significant contributions at her internship with the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office, where she is focused on researching fraud cases. Her work involves examining data and trends to assist in shielding residents from the growing threat of e-fraud.
Thede, a senior studying criminal justice and psychology, has been analyzing fraud cases reported over the past three years. She aims to increase public awareness about fraud risks and advocate for enhanced prevention efforts. "By working on this research, I intend to raise awareness of this growing problem and the ongoing need for solutions," Thede stated.
Matt Richie, an associate professor in the UWO criminal justice department, initiated discussions that led to Thede's personalized internship. He expressed concern over increasing fraud cases: "The fraud idea had come up because I kept hearing from officers who were former students that fraud cases were increasing."
In her analysis, Thede identified fake cryptocurrency exchanges as the most prevalent type of fraud in Winnebago County over the last three years. Victims experienced financial losses ranging from $50 to thousands of dollars.
Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office Detective Lieutenant Michael Sewall praised the collaboration with UW Oshkosh: “This collaboration helps foster a relationship between the University and law enforcement, to better our community.”
The data collected by Thede revealed 709 reported cases of fraud in 2021, 667 in 2022, and 630 in 2023. Despite a decrease in case numbers, financial losses have risen significantly over time.
Thede presented her findings alongside Richie at a recent Midwestern Criminal Justice Association meeting. Her work not only enhances understanding within law enforcement but also serves as experiential learning crucial for her career development.
“This experience has exceeded all my expectations and has only strengthened my passion for the field of law and criminal justice,” said Thede.
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