Man Arrested in Connection to Bank Fraud Attempt in Mississippi
POLICE ARRESTED a man in Mississippi after he attempted to withdraw money using a fraudulent check, authorities said. On Jan. 16, 2026, at about 11:40 a.m., officers responded to Bank Plus in Picayune following reports of an attempted withdrawal from an account tied to a fake check.
Officers met with Joseph George Rice III, who was identified as the man attempting the withdrawal. It was revealed that William Thomas McLain was with Rice but had left before police arrived. Rice had previously opened an account at another Bank Plus branch on Jan. 14 with a $2,000 check and withdrew $1,900 the same day. Investigators confirmed the check was fraudulent.
The next day, Rice tried to access the same account in Gulfport, Mississippi, but a hold was placed on the check. On Jan. 16, Rice returned to Picayune and attempted to withdraw $3,700. McLain reportedly fled the scene upon seeing officers arrive.
Rice was arrested on charges of false pretense and conspiracy to commit false pretense. Warrants are expected to be issued soon for McLain, also on charges of false pretense and conspiracy. Authorities praised bank employees and officers for their vigilance in tackling the rising tide of financial fraud. We will provide more information as it becomes available.
