Curse removal scam leads to charges for Montgomery County 'psychics'

JENKINTOWN, Pa. (WPVI) -- Two people have been arrested in Montgomery County for allegedly running a fortune-telling scheme that defrauded victims out of more than $600,000.

Gina Marks, 52, of Huntingdon Valley and Steve Nicklas, 40, of Jenkintown, are facing multiple felony charges after investigators say they operated a business called Jenkintown Psychic Visions and convinced victims they were cursed.

According to the Montgomery County District Attorney's Office, the first victim contacted the business for a psychic phone reading and was told she was plagued by a powerful curse that would destroy her marriage, business, and family unless it was removed.

Over the course of 11 months, from September 2022 to August 2023, Marks and Nicklas allegedly demanded large sums of money and luxury items to "cleanse" the curse, including jewelry, cash, clothing, concert tickets, and gift cards.

The victim also handed over personal belongings for rituals, which investigators say were never returned. In total, the pair allegedly stole $595,959 from the first victim.

A second victim came forward during the investigation, which began in December 2024. Detectives say Marks instructed the victim to provide personal photos and details, then made increasingly unorthodox requests, including a Chanel purse and additional money.

Marks allegedly threatened the victim with reputational damage if her instructions were not followed. The second victim lost at least $18,000.

Financial records from Cash App, Zelle, and a credit union confirmed that funds from both victims were transferred into accounts belonging to Marks and Nicklas.

"These defendants, through their con scheme, preyed on people who were looking for help, guidance and hope, exploiting them for financial gain," said Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele. "They are now going to be held accountable for their actions."

Marks and Nicklas were arrested on Tuesday and charged with Corrupt Organizations, Dealing in the Proceeds of Unlawful Activities, Theft by Unlawful Taking and multiple other offenses.