NEWARK, NJ — A deacon at a church in New Jersey was arrested in Kentucky for allegedly conning a woman out of half a million dollars.

According to authorities, 43-year-old Ephraim Udouso “romantically scammed” an older woman for three years.

Udouso worked as an ordained deacon at Dominican Missionaries at St. John’s Church on Mulberry Street in Newark.

When the victim’s adult son reported the suspected fraud, police say Udouso tried to swindle more money by threatening to put a hit on him.

Investigators said a search warrant uncovered cell phones, computers, and receipts from Western Union.

The deacon is charged with extortion. Other counts may be added.

The Mt. Sterling Police Department in Kentucky is urging the public to stay alert against such scams and never send gift cards, cryptocurrency, personal information, or money to unknown individuals.

“Please stay alert, and if you’re unsure about something, just ask! We’d much prefer you check with us if something seems suspicious rather than end up filing a theft report for your life savings,” the department said.

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