Two Baraboo Women Accused Of Bilking Victims

Two women are accused of stealing thousands of dollars from area residents through phony investment schemes or fake money collection efforts.

Jennifer M. Wilcott-Otto, 41, and Angela M. Steiner, 37, both of Baraboo, face charges of committing theft through false representation totaling more than $10,000 and extorting money.

Wilcott-Otto was also charged with a second charge of theft by false representation totaling more than $10,000, according to a criminal complaint.

The pair is alleged to have organized schemes to steal money from people. One victim told investigators about investing in what the victim was led to believe would be a money-making venture in the movie industry, police said.

Other victims “were led to believe the suspects were assisting them as advocates with the court system and were collecting money to prevent further legal problems,” according to a Baraboo Police Department news release.

Investigators said they believe there might be additional victims who haven’t been identified. They are asking anyone who has had financial dealings or investments with either suspect to contact Baraboo police.

“The dollar amounts and loss in these cases is significant,” Baraboo Police Chief Mark Schauf said in the news release.

The release didn’t say how much money was involved in the alleged schemes.

Police, who are being assisted by the Sauk County Sheriff’s Office, are continuing to investigate.